Long-term Hypoparathyroidism Research Articles

1234 Optimising Vitamin D and Calcium Management in Thyroidectomy Patients

Abstract Aim The study aimed to investigate the causes of temporary postoperative hypocalcemia and strategies for correction. Objectives included assessing the impact of preoperative trust guidelines on detecting and managing Vitamin D deficiency in thyroidectomy patients and analyzing its correlation with postoperative hypocalcemia at Northampton General Hospital. Method A three-cycle audit analyzed 16, 12, and 8 cases, respectively, encompassing total and completion thyroidectomies at NGH. Collaborative development of standardized trust guidelines involved the ENT Team, Endocrinology, and Pharmacists. Data collection covered various parameters, and departmental teachings were conducted to educate the team on the new guidelines. Results Thyroidectomy indications included Graves's disease, large Multinodular Goitre, and malignancy. In the third cycle, all patients underwent preoperative Vitamin D checks, aligning postoperative hypocalcemia with the national range. Our interventions increased preoperative Vitamin D checks from 56% to 100%, reducing deficiency from 25% to 0%. Postoperative hypocalcemia decreased from 56% in Cycle 1 to 8.3% in Cycle 2 and 12.5% in Cycle 3. Long-term hypoparathyroidism dropped to 0% in Cycle 3, with no correlation between surgeon technique or indication and postoperative hypocalcemia. Conclusions The introduction of preoperative guidelines significantly enhanced Vitamin D deficiency detection, substantially reducing postoperative hypocalcemia. This underscores the positive impact of standardized protocols on patient care. Future efforts involve re-auditing with the involvement of junior doctors to ensure continuous enhancement in clinical practice.

Management of Postthyroidectomy Hypoparathyroidism and Its Effect on Hypocalcemia-Related Complications: A Meta-Analysis.

The aim of this Meta-analysis is to evaluate the impact of different treatment strategies for early postoperative hypoparathyroidism on hypocalcemia-related complications and long-term hypoparathyroidism. Embase.com, MEDLINE, Web of Science Core Collection, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and the top 100 references of Google Scholar were searched to September 20, 2022. Articles reporting on adult patients who underwent total thyroidectomy which specified a treatment strategy for postthyroidectomy hypoparathyroidism were included. Random effect models were applied to obtain pooled proportions and 95% confidence intervals. Primary outcome was the occurrence of major hypocalcemia-related complications. Secondary outcome was long-term hypoparathyroidism. Sixty-six studies comprising 67 treatment protocols and 51,096 patients were included in this Meta-analysis. In 8 protocols (3806 patients), routine calcium and/or active vitamin D medication was given to all patients directly after thyroidectomy. In 49 protocols (44,012 patients), calcium and/or active vitamin D medication was only given to patients with biochemically proven postthyroidectomy hypoparathyroidism. In 10 protocols (3278 patients), calcium and/or active vitamin D supplementation was only initiated in case of clinical symptoms of hypocalcemia. No patient had a major complication due to postoperative hypocalcemia. The pooled proportion of long-term hypoparathyroidism was 2.4% (95% confidence interval, 1.9-3.0). There was no significant difference in the incidence of long-term hypoparathyroidism between the 3 supplementation groups. All treatment strategies for postoperative hypocalcemia prevent major complications of hypocalcemia. The early postoperative treatment protocol for postthyroidectomy hypoparathyroidism does not seem to influence recovery of parathyroid function in the long term.

Regional Collaboration and Trends in Clinical Management of Thyroid Cancer.

This study examines the trends in the management of thyroid cancer and clinical outcomes in the Southwestern region of The Netherlands from 2010 to 2021, where a regional collaborative network has been implemented in January 2016. Retrospective cohort study. This study encompasses all patients diagnosed with thyroid cancer of any subtype between January 2010 and June 2021 in 10 collaborating hospitals in the Southwestern region of The Netherlands. The primary outcome of this study was the occurrence of postoperative complications. Secondary outcomes were trends in surgical management, centralization, and waiting times of patients with thyroid cancer. This study included 1186 patients with thyroid cancer. Median follow-up was 58 [interquartile range: 24-95] months. Surgery was performed in 1027 (86.6%) patients. No differences in postoperative complications, such as long-term hypoparathyroidism, permanent recurrent nerve paresis, or reoperation due to bleeding were seen over time. The percentage of patients with low-risk papillary thyroid carcinoma referred to the academic hospital decreased from 85% (n = 120/142) in 2010 to 2013 to 70% (n = 120/171) in 2014 to 2017 and 62% (n = 100/162) in 2018 to 2021 (P < .01). The percentage of patients undergoing a hemithyroidectomy alone was 9% (n = 28/323) in 2010 to 2013 and increased to 20% (n = 63/317; P < .01) in 2018 to 2021. The establishment of a regional oncological network coincided with a de-escalation of thyroid cancer treatment and centralization of complex patients and interventions. However, no differences in postoperative complications over time were observed. Determining the impact of regional oncological networks on quality of care is challenging in the absence of uniform quality indicators.

Comparing subtotal parathyroidectomy and total parathyroidectomy with autotransplantation in renal transplant recipients.

Both subtotal parathyroidectomy (SPTX) and total parathyroidectomy with autotransplantation (TPTX + AT) are considered acceptable surgical approaches for renal patients. It is common that parathyroid surgery is performed in patients before they undergo kidney transplantation and there is currently no evidence considering the best surgical approach in this subset of patients. Two cohorts were identified of consecutive patients who underwent parathyroidectomy for renal hyperparathyroidism by two surgeons at a single institution over equivalent time periods (SPTX and TPTX + AT). A retrospective chart review was performed to assess these techniques, including outcomes following kidney transplantation. There were 125 patients analysed, with 56 patients who underwent SPTX and 69 who underwent TPTX + AT. Both cohorts effectively reduced PTH post operatively. There were 22 patients in the SPTX cohort and 26 in the TPTX + AT cohort that subsequently received kidney transplants. There were no cases of recurrent hyperparathyroidism and one of hypoparathyroidism (4.5%) in the SPTX patients post-transplant. There was one case of recurrent hyperparathyroidism (3.8%) and four of persistent hypoparathyroidism (15.4%) in the TPTX + AT patients post-transplant. Surgery for renal hyperparathyroidism requires a careful balance of the extent of parathyroid resection to prevent persistent/recurrent disease and avoid permanent hypoparathyroidism. SPTX may be a more appropriate option in kidney transplant candidates in order to minimise the risk of long-term hypoparathyroidism.

Outcome and Evaluation of the Patient Thyroidectomy with Hyperthyroidism: A Case-Control Study

Introduction: According to reports, pediatric patients with hypothyroidism have a higher risk of complications following surgery than adults. Specifically, this Study's aimed to evaluate how complete thyroidectomy is in youth (18 years) and adults. Materials and Methods: A retrospective case-control study of all (n=100) complete thyroidectomies was performed on 32 pediatric and 68 adult patients who were consecutive from were compared at the Department of ENT, Head &amp; Neck Surgery, Islami Bank Medical College and multicentral base hospital, Rajshahi, Bangladesh, from July 2018 to June 2021. Results: The average patient age in children was 9.7 years (range 3.4-17.9 years) against 44.9 years (range 18.4-84.2 years) in adults. Compared to adults, surgical procedures on children took an average of (2.18 ± 0.08 hrs.) longer to complete in adults (1.66 ± 0.03 hrs) (p = 0.003). The average weight of a thyroid specimen was 48.0 ± 6.4 grams in adults and 38.6.0 ± 8.9 grams in children (range, 6.6-203 grams; p = 0.34). Children had a higher ratio of thyroid weight to body weight (0.94 ± 0.11 gm/kg) than adults (0.67 ± 0.8 gm/kg; p = 0.05). After surgery, the hyperthyroid condition improved in every patient. There were no operational deaths, recurrences, or long-term hypoparathyroidism. Conclusion: It is clear that the technical difficulties associated with treating Graves' disease surgically in children and adults result in longer operational periods. There was no difference in the chances of long-term consequences, including recurrent laryngeal nerve damage or neck hematoma. Medicine Today 2023 Vol.35(1): 40-43

Increased Risk of Complications Associated With Concurrent Parathyroidectomy in Patients Undergoing Total Thyroidectomy

IntroductionWe sought to investigate the association of concurrent parathyroidectomy (PTX) with risks of total thyroidectomy (TTX) through analysis of Collaborative Endocrine Surgery Quality Improvement Program data. TTXis a common operation with complications including recurrent laryngeal nerve injury, neck hematoma, and hypoparathyroidism. A subset of patients undergoing thyroidectomy undergoes planned concurrent PTX for treatment of primary hyperparathyroidism. There are limited data on the risk profile of TTX with concurrent PTX (TTX + PTX). MethodsWe queried the Collaborative Endocrine Surgery Quality Improvement Program database for patients who underwent TTX or TTX + PTX from January 2014 through April 2020. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to predict hypoparathyroidism, vocal cord dysfunction, neck hematoma, and postoperative emergency department visit. Covariates included patient demographics, patient body mass index, indication for surgery, central neck dissection, anticoagulation use, and surgeon volume. ResultsThirteen thousand six hundred forty seven patients underwent TTX and 654 patients underwent TTX + PTX. Unadjusted rates of hypoparathyroidism were higher in TTX + PTX patients at 30 d (9.6% versus 7.4%, P = 0.04) and 6 mo (7.9% versus 3.1%, P < 0.001). On multivariable regression, TTX + PTX was associated with an increased risk of hypoparathyroidism at 30 d (odds ratio [OR] 2.09, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.57-2.79) and 6 mo (OR 4.63, 95% CI 3.06-7.00) and an increased risk of postoperative emergency department visit (OR 1.66, 95% CI 1.20-2.31). TTX + PTX was not associated with recurrent laryngeal nerve injury or neck hematoma. ConclusionsConcurrent PTX in patients undergoing TTX is associated with increased risk of immediate and long-term hypoparathyroidism, which should be considered in informed consent discussions and operative decision-making.

Evaluation of hypoparathyroidism following laryngectomy.

Hypoparathyroidism is a recognised complication following laryngectomy; it is associated with significant short-and long-term morbidity. This study aimed to further characterise this condition, identify risk factors and describe preventative and management strategies in a large cohort. This was a retrospective study at a tertiary referral centre for head and neck cancers. All consecutive patients who had total laryngectomy over an eight-year period were included. A total of 140 patients were included. Rates of transient and long-term hypoparathyroidism were 14.3% and 10.1%, respectively. The following factors were significantly associated with transient post-surgical hypocalcaemia or hypoparathyroidism: total thyroidectomy (relative risk, RR, 4.33; 95% confidence interval, CI, 1.86-10.10), oesophagectomy (RR 6.05; 95% CI 2.92-12.53) and female sex (RR 3.23; 95% CI 1.45-7.19). In addition, total thyroidectomy (RR 5.89; 95% CI 1.94-17.86), central neck dissection (RR 3.97; 95% CI 1.42-11.10), oesophagectomy (RR 9.38; 95% CI 4.13-21.3), pharyngectomy (RR 7.14; 95% CI 2.08-24.39) and female sex (RR 5.52; 95% CI 1.95-15.63) were risk factors for long-term hypoparathyroidism. There was variability in the use of preventative measures, monitoring and management of hypocalcaemia and hypoparathyroidism following total laryngectomy. Transient hypocalcaemia and long-term hypoparathyroidism occur in a significant proportion of patients after laryngectomy. A standard protocol is required to improve care.

Micropetrosis in hemodialysis patients

Micropetrosis develops as a result of stagnation of calcium, phosphorus and bone fluid, which appears as highly mineralized bone area in the osteocytic perilacunar/canalicular system regardless of bone turnover of the patients. And microcracks are predisposed to increase in these areas, which leads to increased bone fragility. However, micropetrosis of hemodialysis (HD) patients has not been discussed at all. Micropetrosis area per bone area (Mp.Ar/B·Ar) and osteocyte number per micropetrosis area (Ot.N/Mp.Ar) were measured in nine HD patients with renal hyperparathyroidism (Group I), twelve patients with hypoparathyroidism within 1 year after the treatment of renal hyperparathyroidism (Group II) and seven patients suffering from hypoparathyroidism for over two years (Group III). And bone mineral density (BMD) and tissue mineral density (TMD) were calculated using μCT to evaluate bone mineral content of iliac bone of the patients. These parameters were compared among the three groups. Only Mp.Ar/B·Ar was statistically greater in Group II and III compared to Group I in the parameters of bone mineral content and micropetrosis. However, the other parameters were not statistically different among the three groups. In long-term HD patients, BMD and TMD may be modified by the causes of renal insufficiency and the treatment of renal bone disease. We concluded that Mp.Ar/B·Ar was greater in patients with long-term hypoparathyroidism than both those with short-term hypoparathyroidism and with renal hyperparathyroidism. Special attention should be paid to avoid long-term hypoparathyroidism of the patients from the view point of increased fracture risk caused by increased micropetrosis area.

Rate of Incidental Parathyroidectomy in a Pediatric Population.

ObjectiveIncidental parathyroidectomy is a relatively common occurrence in thyroid surgery, which may lead to hypoparathyroidism and postoperative hypocalcemia, but it is not well studied in children. The objectives of this study were to determine the rate of incidental parathyroidectomy, identify potential risk factors, and investigate postoperative complications in children undergoing thyroidectomy.Study DesignRetrospective cohort study.SettingPatients who underwent thyroidectomy over a 10-year period at a tertiary children’s hospital.MethodsPathology reports were reviewed to determine incidental parathyroid gland tissue. Additional data collected included patient demographics, type of procedure, underlying thyroid pathology, as well as immediate and long-term postoperative clinical outcomes.ResultsOf 209 patients, 65 (31%) had incidental parathyroidectomy. Several variables were associated with incidental parathyroidectomy on univariable analysis. However, in the final multivariable model, only thyroidectomy with lymph node dissection was associated with increased odds of having incidental parathyroidectomy (odds ratio, 3.3; P = .04; 95% CI, 1.1-9.8). After a median follow up of 1 year, a significantly higher percentage of patients with incidental parathyroidectomy had evidence of long-term hypoparathyroidism (9/62 [15%] vs 3/144 [2%], P = .001).ConclusionIncidental parathyroidectomy was relatively common in our pediatric thyroidectomy population, which may be a result of several anatomic, clinical, and surgeon-related factors. Close attention to parathyroid preservation with meticulous surgical technique is the most practical method of preventing long-term hypoparathyroidism and hypocalcemia.

Analysis of Risk Factors for Hypoparathyroidism After Total Thyroidectomy.

Objective: To analyze the risk factors of hypoparathyroidism after total thyroidectomy.Methods: Clinical data of patients who undergo total thyroidectomy in the Luwan Branch of Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Medical College of Shanghai Jiaotong University was collected from January 2015 to December 2018, retrospectively. Logistic regression was used to analyze the risk factors associated with transient and long-term hypoparathyroidism.Results: A total of 537 patients were collected. The patients' average age included in the study was 47.3 ± 12.7 years old, including 135 males (25.1%) and 702 females (74.9%). There were 194 patients (36.1%) with transient postoperative hypoparathyroidism, and 21 patients (3.9%) had long-term postoperative hypoparathyroidism. After multivariate analysis, the main risk factors related to postoperative transient hypoparathyroidism were gender (P = 0.038, OR 0.686), combined lymph node dissection (P = 0.008, OR 1.569), and the maximum diameter of the thyroid (P = 0.011, OR 1.192), second operation (P = 0.001, OR 1.974), preoperative blood calcium (P < 0.001, OR 0.028). The main risk factors associated with long-term postoperative hypoparathyroidism are combined with lymph node dissection (P = 0.011, OR 1.594), maximum thyroid diameter (P = 0.032, OR 1.254), and PTH on the first day after surgery (P < 0.001, OR 1.199).Conclusions: Gender, combined lymph node dissection, maximum thyroid diameter, a second surgery, and preoperative blood calcium are risk factors for transient hypoparathyroidism after thyroid surgery. The combined lymphatic dissection and the thyroid gland's maximum diameter are risk factors for long-term hypoparathyroidism after thyroid surgery. PTH on the first day after surgery has a predictive effect on patients with long-term hypoparathyroidism.

Duration of Parathyroid Function Recovery in Patients With Protracted Hypoparathyroidism After Total Thyroidectomy for Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma.

PurposeThe aim of the present study is to investigate the time to recovery of parathyroid function in patients with protracted hypoparathyroidism at 1 month after total thyroidectomy of papillary thyroid carcinoma.Materials and MethodsAdult patients who underwent total thyroidectomy for papillary thyroid cancer were included. Cases of long-term hypoparathyroidism were studied for recovery of parathyroid function during the follow-up. The duration of recovery and associated variables were recorded.ResultsOut of the 964 patients, 128 (13.28%) developed protracted hypoparathyroidism and of these, 23 (2.39%) developed permanent hypoparathyroidism and 105 (10.89%) recovered: 86 (8.92%) before 6 months, 11 (1.14%) within 6 and 12 months and 8 (0.83%) after 1 year follow-up. Variables significantly associated with the time to parathyroid function recovery were number of autotransplanted parathyroid glands (HR, 1.399; 95% CI, 1.060 – 1.846; P = 0.018), serum calcium concentration >2.07 mmol/L (Hazard ratio [HR], 1.628; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.009 – 2.628; P = 0.046) and PTH level > 1.2 pmol/L (HR, 1.702; 95% CI, 1.083 – 2.628; P = 0.021) at 1 month postoperatively.ConclusionPermanent hypoparathyroidism should not be diagnosed easily by time, since up to one-fifth of the patients will experience recovery after a period of 6 months and a few patients even beyond one year. The number of autotransplanted parathyroid glands is positively associated with the time to parathyroid function recovery.

Parathyroid Hormone Therapy for Managing Chronic Hypoparathyroidism: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

The efficacy and safety of parathyroid hormone (PTH) therapy for managing long-term hypoparathyroidism is being evaluated in ongoing clinical trials. We undertook a systematic review and meta-analysis of currently available randomized controlled trials to investigate the benefits and harms of PTH therapy and conventional therapy in the management of patients with chronic hypoparathyroidism. To identify eligible studies, published in English, we searched Embase, PubMed, and Cochrane CENTRAL from inception to May 2022. Two reviewers independently extracted data and assessed the risk of bias. We defined patients' important outcomes and used grading of recommendations, assessment, development, and evaluation (GRADE) to provide the structure for quantifying absolute effects and rating the quality of evidence. Seven randomized trials of 12 publications that enrolled a total of 386 patients proved eligible. The follow-up duration ranged from 1 to 36months. Compared with conventional therapy, PTH therapy probably achieves a small improvement in physical health-related quality of life (mean difference [MD] 3.4, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.5-5.3, minimally important difference 3.0, moderate certainty). PTH therapy results in more patients reaching 50% or greater reduction in the dose of active vitamin D and calcium (relative risk [RR]= 6.5, 95% CI 2.5-16.4, 385 more per 1000 patients, high certainty). PTH therapy may increase hypercalcemia (RR=2.4, 95% CI 1.2-5.04, low certainty). The findings may support the use of PTH therapy in patients with chronic hypoparathyroidism. Because of limitations of short duration and small sample size, evidence from randomized trials is limited regarding important benefits of PTH therapy compared with conventional therapy. Establishing such benefits will require further studies. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).

Risk Factors of Hypoparathyroidism After Thyroidectomy

[OBJECTIVE] Persistent hypocalcemia caused by long-term hypoparathyroidism can significantly reduce the living quality of patients. The purpose of this study was to investigate possible factors affecting postoperative hypoparathyroidism. [METHODS] This study retrospective collected thyroid surgery cases from January 2015 to December 2017 in Luwan Branch of Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Medical College of Shanghai Jiao Tong University. Moreover, we analyzed demographic data, operative data and perioperative examination indexes. Using logistic regression analysis to investigate possible factors affecting postoperative transient/long-term hypoparathyroidism. [RESULTS] Totally, 1381 people were collected, 343 male (24.84%) and 1038 female (75.16%), the average age was 47.9±13.0 years. Postoperative transient hypoparathyroidism occurred in 456 people (33.02%), and long-term hypoparathyroidism in 21 people (1.52%). After multivariate analysis, the main risk factors associated with postoperative transient hypoparathyroidism were gender(P<0.001, OR 0.486), maximum diameter of thyroid resection(P 0.011, OR 1.192), thyroid resection extent (P<0.001, OR 2.974), lymph node dissection(P 0.008, OR 1.569), surgery duration(P 0.034, OR 1.005), preoperative serum calcium(P<0.001, OR 0.028). The main risk factors associated with postoperative long-term hypoparathyroidism were thyroid resection extent (P<0.003, OR 5.443), surgery duration (P 0.021, OR 0.976), postoperative d1PTH (P<0.001, OR 1.199). [CONCLUSIONS] The risk factors for postoperative transient hypoparathyroidism include gender, the extent of thyroid resection, lymph node dissection, duration of surgery and preoperative serum calcium. The extent of resection and duration of surgery were risk factors for postoperative long-term hypoparathyroidism, and PTH on the early morning after surgery(d1PTH) was lower than normal, which had a predictive effect on long-term hypoparathyroidism.

Outcomes After Urgent Thyroidectomy Following Rapid Control of Thyrotoxicosis in Graves\u2019 Disease are Similar to Those After Elective Surgery in Well-Controlled Disease

BackgroundSurgery for Graves’ disease (GD) is usually performed after adequate control with medical treatment. Occasionally, rapid pre-operative optimization is required. The primary objective was to compare the outcomes of patients undergoing elective surgery for well-controlled GD with those undergoing rapid pre-operative treatment. We also propose a formal treatment protocol for future use.MethodsA retrospective cohort study in a tertiary referral centre included 247 patients with well-controlled GD undergoing elective surgery and 19 patients with poorly controlled disease undergoing surgery after rapid optimization. The latter group did not respond well to thionamides (carbimazole and/or propylthiouracil) or had intolerance or side effects to thionamides and were treated with a range of non-thionamide drugs, including Lugol’s iodine, cholestyramine, beta blockers and steroids (with or without thionamides), and closely monitored for 1–2 weeks before surgery. Outcome measures included thyroid storm, hypoparathyroidism and recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy.ResultsIn total, 266 patients with male-to-female ratio of 1:6 and median (interquartile range) age of 39 (31–51) were included. Overall, long-term recurrent laryngeal palsy and hypoparathyroidism occurred in 1 (0.38%) and 13 (4.9%) patients, respectively. No patient had thyroid storm. There was no significant difference in hypoparathyroidism (p = 1), vocal cord palsy (p = 0.803) and post-operative bleeding (p = 0.362), between elective surgery and rapid optimization groups.ConclusionRapid pre-operative treatment is effective, safe and is associated with similar outcomes compared to usual treatment. A rapid pre-operative optimization protocol is proposed.

Children are at a high risk of hypocalcaemia and hypoparathyroidism after total thyroidectomy

PurposeDisruption of calcium homeostasis is the most common complication after total thyroidectomy in adults. We explored the incidence and risk factors of hypocalcaemia and hypoparathyroidism after total thyroidectomy in children (≤18 years of age). MethodsOne hundred six children underwent total thyroidectomy. Patient, operative and outcome data were collected and analyzed. ResultsThe indication for surgery was Graves' disease in 52 children (49.1%), Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type-2 in 36 (33.9%), multinodular goiter in 3 (2.8%) and follicular/papillary thyroid carcinoma in 15 (14.2%). Neck dissection was performed in 23 children (18.9%). In 14 children (13.2%), autotransplantation was performed; in 31 (29.2%), ≥1 glands were found in the specimen. Hypocalcaemia within 24 h of thyroidectomy was observed in 63 children (59.4%) and 52 (49.3%) were discharged on supplements. Hypoparathyroidism at 6 months persisted in 23 children (21.7%). The ratios of all forms of calcium-related-morbidity were larger among children with less than four parathyroid glands remaining in situ: hypocalcaemia within 24 h of thyroidectomy (54.0% versus 47.5%; p = 0.01), hypoparathyroidism on discharge (64.4% versus 37.7%; p = 0.004) and long-term hypoparathyroidism (31.1% versus 14.8%; p = 0.04). ConclusionThe incidence of postoperative hypocalcaemia and hypoparathyroidism among children undergoing total thyroidectomy is considerable. The inability to preserve the parathyroid glands in situ during surgery seems an important factor. For optimal outcomes, the parathyroid glands should be preserved in situ. Type of StudyPrognosis Study. Level of evidenceLevel IV.

Calcium, vitamin D or recombinant parathyroid hormone for managing post-thyroidectomy hypoparathyroidism.

Post-surgical hypoparathyroidism is a common complication after thyroid surgery. The incidence is likely to increase given the rising trend in the annual number of thyroid operations being performed. Measures to prevent post-thyroidectomy hypoparathyroidism including different surgical techniques and prophylactic calcium and vitamin D supplements have been extensively studied. The management of post-thyroidectomy hypoparathyroidism however has not been extensively evaluated. Routine use of calcium and vitamin D supplements in the postoperative period may reduce the risk of symptoms, temporary hypocalcaemia and hospital stay. However, this may lead to overtreatment and has no effect on long-term hypoparathyroidism. Current recommendations on the management of post-thyroidectomy hypoparathyroidism is based on low-quality evidence. Existing guidelines do not often distinguish between surgical and non-surgical hypoparathyroidism, and transient and long-term disease.The aim of this systematic review was to summarise evidence on the use of calcium, vitamin D and recombinant parathyroid hormone in the management of post-thyroidectomy hypoparathyroidism. In addition, we aimed to highlight deficiencies in the current literature and stimulate further work in this field. The objective of this systematic review was to assess the effects of calcium, vitamin D and recombinant parathyroid hormone in managing post-thyroidectomy hypoparathyroidism. We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase as well as ICTRP Search Portal and ClinicalTrials.gov. The date of the last search for all databases was 17 December 2018 (except Embase, which was last searched on 21 December 2017). No language restrictions were applied. We planned to include randomised control trials (RCTs) or controlled clinical trials (CCTs) examining the effects of calcium, vitamin D or recombinant parathyroid hormone in people with temporary and long-term post-thyroidectomy hypoparathyroidism. Two review authors independently screened titles, abstracts and full texts for relevance. Database searches yielded a total of 1751 records. We retrieved potentially relevant full texts and excluded articles on the following basis: not a RCT or CCT; intervention, comparator or both did not match prespecified criteria; non-surgical causes of hypoparathyroidism, and studies on prevention. None of the articles was eligible for inclusion in the systematic review. This systematic review highlights a gap in the current literature and the lack of high-quality evidence in the management of post-thyroidectomy temporary and long-term hypoparathyroidism. Further research focusing on clinically relevant outcomes is needed to examine the effects of current treatments in the management of temporary and long-term post-thyroidectomy hypocalcaemia.

Calcium, vitamin D or recombinant parathyroid hormone for managing post-thyroidectomy hypoparathyroidism

Background Post-surgical hypoparathyroidism is a common complication after thyroid surgery. The incidence is likely to increase given the rising trend in the annual number of thyroid operations being performed. Measures to prevent post-thyroidectomy hypoparathyroidism including different surgical techniques and prophylactic calcium and vitamin D supplements have been extensively studied. The management of post-thyroidectomy hypoparathyroidism however has not been extensively evaluated. Routine use of calcium and vitamin D supplements in the postoperative period may reduce the risk of symptoms, temporary hypocalcaemia and hospital stay. However, this may lead to overtreatment and has no effect on long-term hypoparathyroidism. Current recommendations on the management of post-thyroidectomy hypoparathyroidism is based on low-quality evidence. Existing guidelines do not often distinguish between surgical and non-surgical hypoparathyroidism, and transient and long-term disease.The aim of this systematic review was to summarise evidence on the use of calcium, vitamin D and recombinant parathyroid hormone in the management of post-thyroidectomy hypoparathyroidism. In addition, we aimed to highlight deficiencies in the current literature and stimulate further work in this field. Objectives The objective of this systematic review was to assess the effects of calcium, vitamin D and recombinant parathyroid hormone in managing post-thyroidectomy hypoparathyroidism. Search methods We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase as well as ICTRP Search Portal and ClinicalTrials.gov. The date of the last search for all databases was 17 December 2018 (except Embase, which was last searched on 21 December 2017). No language restrictions were applied. Selection criteria We planned to include randomised control trials (RCTs) or controlled clinical trials (CCTs) examining the effects of calcium, vitamin D or recombinant parathyroid hormone in people with temporary and long-term post-thyroidectomy hypoparathyroidism. Data collection and analysis Two review authors independently screened titles, abstracts and full texts for relevance. Main results Database searches yielded a total of 1751 records. We retrieved potentially relevant full texts and excluded articles on the following basis: not a RCT or CCT; intervention, comparator or both did not match prespecified criteria; non-surgical causes of hypoparathyroidism, and studies on prevention. None of the articles was eligible for inclusion in the systematic review. Authors' conclusions This systematic review highlights a gap in the current literature and the lack of high-quality evidence in the management of post-thyroidectomy temporary and long-term hypoparathyroidism. Further research focusing on clinically relevant outcomes is needed to examine the effects of current treatments in the management of temporary and long-term post-thyroidectomy hypocalcaemia.

Epidemiology, management and outcomes of Graves\u2019 disease\u2014real life data

PurposeTreatment options in Graves’ disease are clearly defined, but management practices and the perceptions of success are varied. The outcomes of treatment in large consecutive cohorts of Graves’ disease have not been well characterised. The study describes the epidemiology, management strategies and medium term outcomes following anti-thyroid drug treatment, radio-iodine ablation and surgery in Graves’ disease.MethodsAll patients (n = 659) who received treatment for a new diagnosis of Graves’ disease in secondary care over a 5 year period were included with a median (interquartile range) follow-up of 42.9 (29–57.5) months.ResultsThe age adjusted incidence of adult onset Graves’ disease in Sheffield, UK was 24.8 per 100,000 per year. Excluding 35 patients lost to follow-up, 93.1% (n = 581) were controlled on anti-thyroid drug treatment. Of these, 73.6% went into remission following withdrawal of anti-thyroid drugs; 5.2% were still undergoing initial therapy; 13.3% lost control whilst on anti-thyroid drugs; and 7.9% went on to have either surgery or radio-iodine ablation whilst controlled on anti-thyroid drugs. Of the 428 patients who achieved remission, 36.7% relapsed.Of 144 patients who had radio-iodine ablation treatment, 5.6% relapsed and needed further treatment. Of 119 patients having surgery, 5.2% had long-term hypoparathyroidism and none had documented long-term recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy.ConclusionsIn the follow-up, 39.9% of patients underwent surgery or radio-iodine ablation with little morbidity. Up to two-thirds of patients who achieved remission did not relapse. Data on effectiveness and risks of treatments for Graves’ disease presented in this study will help clinicians and patients in decision making.

Long-term treatment-related morbidity in differentiated thyroid cancer: a systematic review of the literature.

BackgroundDifferentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) occurs in relatively young patients and is associated with a good prognosis and long survival. The management of this disease involves thyroidectomy, radioiodine therapy, and long-term thyroid-stimulating hormone suppression therapy (THST). The long-term effects of the treatment and the interaction between subclinical hyperthyroidism and long-term hypoparathyroidism are poorly understood. This review sought to examine the available evidence.MethodsA PubMed search was carried out using the search terms “Thyroid Neoplasms” AND (“Thyroxine” OR “Hypocalcemia” OR “Thyrotropin”). Original English language articles published in the last 30 years studying the morbidity from thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) suppression and hypoparathyroidism following a surgery for DTC were retrieved and reviewed by 2 authors.ResultsOf the 3,000 results, 66 papers including 4,517 patients were selected for the present study. Studies reported on a range of skeletal (included in 34 studies, 1,647 patients), cardiovascular (17 studies, 957 patients), psychological (10 studies, 663 patients), and other outcomes (10 studies, 1,348 patients). Nine of 26 studies on patients who underwent THST showed a reduction in bone density, and 13 of 23 studies showed an increase in bone turnover markers. Skeletal effects were more marked in postmenopausal women. There was no evidence of increased fracture risk, and only little data were available on hypoparathyroidism. Four of five studies showed an increased left ventricular mass index on echocardiography, and one study showed a higher prevalence of atrial fibrillation (AF). There was little difference in basic physiological parameters and limited literature regarding symptoms or significant events. Six studies showed associations between long-term TSH suppression and impaired quality of life. Impaired glucose metabolism and prothrombotic states were also found in DTC patients.ConclusionThere is limited literature regarding long-term DTC treatment-related morbidity, particularly regarding the effects of long-term hypocalcemia. Most studies have focused on surrogate markers and not on clinical outcomes. A large prospective study on defined clinical outcomes would help characterize the morbidity of treatment and stimulate research on tailoring treatment strategies.

The Association of Discolored Parathyroid Glands and Hypoparathyroidism Following Total Thyroidectomy.

It remains uncertain whether a parathyroid gland (PG) that appears darkened or severely bruised but still has an attached vascular pedicle should be left in situ or taken out and auto-transplanted following total thyroidectomy. Our study aimed to examine the impact of discolored PGs (DPGs) on short- and long-term hypoparathyroidism. One hundred and three patients who underwent total thyroidectomy with 4 clearly identified PGs were analyzed. Location (superior/inferior) and color of each PG were recorded. Patients without DPG were grouped into I while those with 1-2 DPGs and ≥3 DPGs were grouped into II and III, respectively. Transient hypoparathyroidism meant adjusted Ca <2.00mol/L 24 h after surgery and/or need for supplements. Protracted hypoparathyroidism meant a subnormal PTH at 4-6weeks and/or supplements >6weeks. Permanent hypoparathyroidism meant supplements ≥1year. Relative to I, group III had greater adjusted Ca drop at postoperative 1-h (p=0.012), 24-h (p<0.001) and lower day-1 PTH (p=0.015). Having ≥3 DPGs (OR 14.00, 95% CI 1.575-124.474, p=0.018) was an independent factor of transient hypoparathyroidism. However, permanent hypoparathyroidism rate was higher than in group I than II (p=0.019). Eight patients (25.8%) in group I had undetectable day-1 PTH, while none in group III had undetectable day-1 PTH. Graves' disease/toxic goiter (OR 15.166, 95% CI 2.594-88.661, p=0.003) and excised gland weight (OR 1.028, 95% CI 1.010-1.046, p=0.003) were independent factors of ≥3 DPGs. PG discoloration is associated with transient hypoparathyroidism while normal colored PG with seemingly adequate blood supply does not always imply functionally normal gland. These findings highlights the need for a real-time intraoperative method to assess PG viability.