Parathyroid Surgery Research Articles

Intraoperative Parathyroid Hormone Kinetics are Variable: An In-Vivo Analysis.

Intraoperative parathyroid hormone (IOPTH) monitoring has become routine in parathyroid surgery to facilitate less invasive techniques to treat hyperparathyroidism. Despite this, little is known about in vivo IOPTH kinetics, which can greatly affect the reliability of its interpretation. A prospective cohort of patients undergoing routine parathyroidectomy was studied. During each case, IOPTH was measured frequently, during all key perioperative events. Qualitative, univariate, and multivariate analysis was performed to better understand the patterns of in vivo IOPTH kinetics. The IOPTH increased from preoperative baseline in every case, but some patients had a rapid spike after gland manipulation while others had a more gradual increase. The IOPTH peak occurred prior to excision in almost every case. The IOPTH began to fall prior to excision, typically returning to preoperative baseline levels just before excision. The average in vivo half-life of parathyroid hormone (PTH) was 5.2 minutes. There is substantial variation in the in vivo IOPTH kinetics and more research is needed to understand predictors of kinetic patterns and PTH half-life during parathyroidectomy.

Achievements and challenges after a century of parathyroid surgery.

Achievements and challenges after a century of parathyroid surgery.

Diagnostic sensitivity of fine-needle aspiration cytology in thyroid cancer

Introduction Fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is an effective tool in the diagnostic work-up of patients with thyroid nodules. The aim of our study was to assess the diagnostic sensitivity of FNAC in thyroid cancer (TC) in Sweden by correlating the findings of preoperative FNAC with those obtained through final histology of the surgical specimen. Methods A Swedish nationwide cohort of patients having surgery for TC (n = 2519) from the Scandinavian Quality Register for Thyroid, Parathyroid and Adrenal surgery between 2004 and 2013 was obtained. Data was validated through scrutinizing patient FNAC and histology reports. Results Among the 2519 cases operated with a final diagnosis of TC, the diagnosis was substantiated and validated through the histology report in 2332 cases (92.6%), included in the present study. Among these, 1679 patients (72%) were female and the median age at TC diagnosis was 52.3 years (range 18-94.6). In 353 cases (15.1%) FNAC was not performed at all; whereas in the remaining 1965 cases, the diagnostic sensitivity of FNAC was 81.6%. In lesions > 1 cm, FNAC diagnostic sensitivity reached 86.5%, whereas in lesions < 1 cm, FNAC yielded a sensitivity of 61.5%. Approximately 85% of FNACs (n = 1981/2332) were performed using ultra-sonographic (US) guidance. In TC lesions > 1 cm, the diagnostic sensitivity of US-guided FNAC (n = 1504) was 86.9% as compared to 76.9% in clinically applied FNAC without US utilization (n = 118). Conclusions FNAC is performed in most patients operated for TC in Sweden (85%) and retains its value as a tool in TC diagnostic work-up with an overall sensitivity of 82%, reaching 87% in lesions > 1 cm, that harbor clinically relevant TC.

A prospective observational study on the anatomical variations of recurrent laryngeal nerve and its application in the prevention of injury during thyroid surgery in a tertiary care centre

BackgroundThyroid gland is the largest and most vascular structure among the endocrine glands. The recurrent laryngeal nerve and the superior laryngeal nerve are closely related to the thyroid gland; these nerves control voice and are vital in breathing. Anatomical preservation of the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) is the gold standard in thyroid surgery. Visual identification of RLN has decreased the rates of permanent RLN palsy during thyroid and parathyroid operations. Prior knowledge about the branching patterns will help in predicting and preventing injury to the nerve during thyroid surgery.Aim and objectivesThe aim of the study is to observe the terminal branching pattern of recurrent laryngeal nerve before its entry into the larynx.MethodsAn observational study with 50 participants who fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion criteria were enrolled in the study. After a complete evaluation and pre-anaesthetic checkup, the patients were operated and intraoperative findings of RLN branching were recorded and compared for the study.ResultsIn our study, out of the 50 patients who underwent thyroid surgery during the course of the study, right-sided RLN branching was demonstrated in 25 patients (21 right hemithyroidectomy and 4 total thyroidectomy). Ten patients had RLN bifurcation, 7 had trifurcation, 5 had numerous branches, and 3 with no branching pattern were noted. Similarly, out of 29 patients (25 left hemithyroidectomy and 4 total thyroidectomy) in whom left-sided RLN branching was studied, bifurcation was seen in 10 patients, trifurcation in 12 patients, and multiple branching was observed in 7.ConclusionThe anatomical variations seen in RLN may increase the risk of vocal cord palsy due to its injury. Anatomical variations are categorized according to the original direction of the RLN and the number of terminal branches in the larynx. This classification aids in the identification and preservation of its branches, hence facilitating a safer thyroidectomy.

7633 Novel CASR Gene Mutation in a patient with Familial Hypocalciuric Hypercalcemia and Papillary Thyroid Cancer

Abstract Disclosure: A. Parihar: None. E.S. Nylen: None. S.M. Gandhi: None. Familial Hypocalciuric Hypercalcemia (FHH) is predominantly caused by loss-of-function mutations in the calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) characterized by a benign elevation in calcium and PTH which can be mistaken for primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT). Missense mutations in the CaSR gene causing FHH have been documented but not much is known regarding their clinical significance. We describe a patient with FHH found to have a novel variant mutation. A 37-year-old male with hypogonadism and fatty liver was incidentally found to have hypercalcemia suggestive of PHPT with elevated PTH (102-114 pg/ml), normal vitamin D, and Fractional Excretion of Calcium (FECa) of 0.014. His father also had hypercalcemia and had undergone parathyroid surgery. The patient denied kidney stones and had a normal bone density. Subsequent Sestamibi and 4D CT scan suggested parathyroid adenoma on the left mid-lower pole of the thyroid. Neck ultrasound also showed a left 1.2 x 1 x 1 cm thyroid nodule as well as a left neck mass with calcifications. Fine needle aspiration was positive for metastatic Papillary thyroid cancer(PTC) in the left neck mass and patient underwent total thyroidectomy along with subtotal parathyroidectomy and lateral neck dissection. Thyroid pathology confirmed multifocal PTC with lymph node involvement that were BRAF V600 positive. Parathyroid pathology was benign hyperplasia. The PTH level decreased appropriately intraoperatively (69%), but postoperatively a rise was noted with levels remaining 70-90 pg/ml with normal calcium levels. Repeat FECa was 0.007, supporting the diagnosis of FHH. Given patient’s father also had hypercalcemia, genetic testing was pursued. This revealed CaSR gene missense mutation (c.1382T&amp;gt;C p.Leu461Pro, heterozygous). This variation is not present in population databases and has been classified as a variant of uncertain significance. It can be difficult to distinguish PHPT from FHH based on FECa as in this case. The patient also had PTC which is not known to be associated with FHH. Due to uncertain significance of this novel CaSR missense mutation, long term follow-up and further familial genetic testing will help better understand clinical implications. Presentation: 6/2/2024

The effectiveness of combined anesthesia in comparison with general anesthesia in thyroid and parathyroid surgery: a single-center prospective randomized study

BACKGROUND. Operations on the organs of the anterior surface of the neck (thyroidectomy, carotidectomy, plastic surgery, etc.) are widespread in the Russian Federation. The development of adequate anesthesiological support for these interventions is an urgent task of modern anesthesiology. The introduction of combined regional anesthesia techniques into surgical practice makes it possible to minimize postoperative complications, manifested in the form of severe pain syndrome, postoperative nausea and vomiting. AIM. To conduct a comparative assessment of the effectiveness of combined (general + regional) and only general anesthesia during operations on the thyroid and parathyroid glands. MATERIALS AND METHODS. In a prospective randomized study, 60 patients operated on for thyroid and parathyroid gland diseases were divided into 2 groups: in group 1, general anesthesia was performed in combination with blockade of the internal fascia of the neck and bilateral blockade of the superficial branches of the cervical plexus, as well as the Berry ligament area under ultrasound navigation; patients of group 2 were operated on in conditions of combined general anesthesia. The hemodynamic profile during surgery, plasma cortisol concentration, required doses of fentanyl, intensity of postoperative pain syndrome, need for anesthesia, and recovery time were evaluated. RESULTS. Combined (general + regional) anesthesia was characterized by a decrease in fentanyl consumption compared with the group receiving only general anesthesia (p 0.0001), a decrease in cortisol content in blood plasma 12 hours after extubation (p=0.0439), a reduction in median pain after tracheal extubation 3 and 12 hours after surgery (p=0.0190, p 0.0001), as well as a twofold reduction in the time interval from the end of the operation to the moment of extubation (p=0.0001). The assessment of patients on the Aldreth awakening scale in the group of people who underwent combined anesthesia indicates a higher willingness of patients to be transferred from the operating room to the awakening ward (p=0.0114). CONCLUSION. The study demonstrated the effectiveness and safety of the combined anesthesia technique in thyroid and parathyroid surgery, which provides adequate anesthetic protection for patients.

Lithium-associated hypercalcemia and hyperparathyroidism: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

We aimed to review and summarise the existing human literature on the association between lithium and hyperparathyroidism. A systematic literature search was carried out according to PRISMA guidelines (last search 27 February 2024), using MEDLINE, Web of Science, Embase and the Cochrane Library. A meta-analysis was performed to determine the prevalence of lithium-associated hypercalcemia (LAHca) in lithium-treated patients. The pooled prevalence of LAHca based on total calcium and ionised calcium was comparable, at 3.17% and 4.23%, respectively. Calcium, and PTH if the patient is hypercalcaemic, is insufficiently measured in lithium-treated patients in clinical practice. Lithium use is associated with higher calcium and PTH levels, as well as a higher incidence of hyperparathyroidism. There is a high prevalence of multiglandular disease in lithium-associated hyperparathyroidism (LAH), with a pooled prevalence of 51.28%. Parathyroid surgery and cinacalcet are effective treatments for LAH. Regarding lithium discontinuation, there is anecdotal but conflicting evidence suggesting that it can result in the resolution of LAH in selected cases. Lithium treatment increases the risk of hyperparathyroidism, a treatable complication with a pooled prevalence of around 4%, compared to 0.5% in the healthy population.

Evaluation of body composition, physical performance, muscle strength, and mass in patients with Primary Hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) before and after parathyroid surgery

Evaluation of body composition, physical performance, muscle strength, and mass in patients with Primary Hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) before and after parathyroid surgery

Prevalence of Hyperparathyroidism among Dialysis Patients in Baghdad Teaching Hospital

Chronic kidney disease is common due to the high prevalence of its main causes. Many pathological changes occur in these patients. Hyperparathyroidism is one of the most common pathologies reported in chronic kidney disease patients. High prevalence rates have been reported worldwide in previous studies, and different factors have been implicated to be associated with Hyperparathyroidism. The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence of hyperparathyroidism among Iraqi patients with chronic kidney disease on hemodialysis therapy and to identify the factors associated with hyperparathyroidism. This was a cross-sectional study with analytic utility performed in in Baghdad Teaching Hospital, Dialysis Center during the period from June 2020 to March 2021. The study included 100 patients (60 males and 40 females). Patients with one or more of the following were excluded: primary hyperparathyroidism. Known parathyroid gland disease, malignancy, bone diseases, Kidney transplantation, or history of parathyroid surgery. Data was collected using a data collection form, and analysis was performed using the statistical package for Social Sciences version 26 (SPSS 26). Appropriate statistical tests were applied accordingly at a level of significance of 0.05. The mean age of the patients was 53.1 ± 14.2 (range: 18 – 80) years, male to female ratio was 1.5 to one. Prevalence of hyperparathyroidism was 33%. No significant association between hyperparathyroidism and each of age, the cause of CKD, or comorbidities. Hyperparathyroidism was more frequent in females (P&lt;0.05). Higher prevalence of Hyperparathyroidism was reported among users of calcium tab supplementation\chelating, vitamin D, and Cinacalcit (P&lt;0.05). Hyperparathyroidism was frequent among Iraqi CKD patients treated by hemodialysis in a rate of 33%. Higher prevalence of Hyperparathyroidism appeared to be associated with female gender, longer duration on hemodialysis, using calcium supplementation/chelating, vitamin D, and Cinacalcit.

Predictive Ability of Rule of 3 in Parathyroid Cancer: Outcomes from a South Asian Cohort

Background: Preoperative diagnosis of parathyroid cancer (PC) where possible allows for en-bloc resection of the tumour, which is associated with excellent prognosis. The rule of >3 (size of tumour larger than 3 cm; corrected calcium more than 3 mmol/L) as proposed by Schulte and Talat has a specificity of 95% in predicting malignancy in parathyroid neoplasms. We looked at the impact of rule of 3 in predicting malignancy and outcomes on intervention in a South Asian cohort. Methods: Patients who underwent parathyroid surgery between 2010 and 2023 at two tertiary referral centres were assessed. Patients with PC were selected and their clinicopathological parameters, treatment modalities, and outcomes were analysed. Results: Thirteen of 336 (3.8%) patients with a mean age of 61.8 (±17.5) years were diagnosed with PC during the study period. The highest mean preoperative values were PTH (92.4 ± 66.27 pmol/L), highest corrected calcium (3.21 ± 0.28 mmol/L), and alkaline phosphatase (419 IU/mL). Nine patients underwent en-bloc excision while the other had focussed parathyroidectomy. Recurrences were recorded in 2 (28.5%) patients over a mean follow-up period of 69 (±48.6) months. One patient with lung metastasis underwent video-assisted thoracic surgery. There was no disease specific mortality in this cohort during the study period. Conclusions: In our experience, the predictive rule of 3 has low sensitivity to suspect PC preoperatively, resulting in limited usefulness in clinical practice. Outcomes appear to be less favourable with higher recurrence rates in cases where less than en-bloc resection is performed.

How do i select and prepare a patient for parathyroid surgery?

How do i select and prepare a patient for parathyroid surgery?

Redo Thyroidectomy: Updated Insights.

The risk of post-operatory hypothyroidism and hypocalcaemia, along with recurrent laryngeal nerve injury, is lower following a less-than-total thyroidectomy; however, a previously unsuspected carcinoma or a disease progression might be detected after initial surgery, hence indicating re-intervention as mandatory (so-called "redo" surgery) with completion. This decision takes into consideration a multidisciplinary approach, but the surgical technique and the actual approach is entirely based on the skills and availability of the surgical team according to the standard protocols regarding a personalised decision. We aimed to introduce a review of the most recently published data, with respect to redo thyroid surgery. For the basis of the discussion, a novel vignette on point was introduced. This was a narrative review. We searched English-language papers according to the key search terms in different combinations such as "redo" and "thyroid", alternatively "thyroidectomy" and "thyroid surgery", across the PubMed database. Inclusion criteria were original articles. The timeframe of publication was between 1 January 2020 and 20 July 2024. Exclusion criteria were non-English papers, reviews, non-human studies, case reports or case series, exclusive data on parathyroid surgery, and cell line experiments. We identified ten studies across the five-year most recent window of PubMed searches that showed a heterogeneous spectrum of complications and applications of different surgeries with respect to redo interventions during thyroid removal (e.g., recurrent laryngeal nerve monitoring during surgery, other types of incision than cervicotomy, the use of parathyroid fluorescence, bleeding risk, etc.). Most studies addressing novel surgical perspectives focused on robotic-assisted re-intervention, and an expansion of this kind of studies is expected. Further studies and multifactorial models of assessment and risk prediction are necessary to decide, assess, and recommend redo interventions and the most adequate surgical techniques.

Parathyroid gland identification and angiography classification using simple machine learning methods.

Near-infrared indocyanine green angiography allows experienced surgeons to reliably evaluate parathyroid gland vitality during thyroid and parathyroid operations in order to predict postoperative function. To facilitate equal performance between surgeons, we developed an automatic computational quantification method using computer vision that portrays expert interpretation of visualized parathyroid gland near-infrared indocyanine green angiographic fluorescence signals. Near-infrared indocyanine green-parathyroid gland angiography video recordings (Fluobeam® LX, Fluoptics, Grenoble-part of Getinge-Göteborg) from patients undergoing endocrine cervical surgery in a high-volume unit were used for model development. Computation (MATLAB, Mathworks, Ireland) included segmentation-identification of the parathyroid gland (by autofluorescence), image stabilization (by linear translation) and adjusted time-fluorescence intensity profile generation. Relative upslope and maximum intensity ratios then trained a simple logistic regression model based on expert interpretation and outcome (including hypoparathyroidism), with subsequent unseen testing for validation. The model was trained on 37 patient videos (45 glands, 29 judged well perfused by parathyroid gland angiography experts), achieving feature data separation with 100% accuracy, and tested on 22 unseen videos (27 glands, 15 judged well perfused), including four in real time. Segmentation-guided parathyroid gland detection correctly identified all parathyroid glands during unseen testing along with three additional non-parathyroid gland regions (90% positive predictive value). Subsequent time-fluorescence intensity profile extraction with vitality prediction was shown feasible in all cases within 5 min, with a 96.3% model accuracy (sensitivity and specificity were 93.3 and 100% respectively) when compared with expert judgement. Automatic parathyroid gland perfusion quantification using simple machine learning computational methods discriminates parathyroid gland perfusion in concordance with expert surgeon interpretation, providing a means for near-infrared indocyanine green-parathyroid gland signal evaluation.

Clinical practice guideline for robotic surgical system-assisted thyroid and parathyroid surgery (2024 edition)

The use of robotic operating systems is an advancement of intelligent precision, minimally invasive surgery. It has been used in the field of thyroid surgery with satisfactory results. Robotic surgery system assisted thyroid and parathyroid surgical expert consensus(2016) as played an important role in the standardization and clinical popularization of robotic surgical system-assisted thyroid and parathyroid surgery. With the deepening of clinical practice, updates in minimally invasive concept, the replacement of robotic platforms and the continuous improvement of technology, robotic thyroid and parathyroid surgery has been further developed. Notably, it has made substantial progress in expanding indications and the training of robotic surgeons and teams. Based on the 2016 Chinese expert consensus, combined with recent related articles and clinical studies, the Clinical Practice Guideline for Robotic Surgical System-Assisted Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery (2024 edition) was formed. The surgical team training, indications, preoperative evaluation, patient position and space establishment, thyroidectomy procedures, neck lymph node dissection skills were summarized and recommended. Furthermore, reasonable suggestions on reoperation, parathyroid surgery and management of postoperative complications were also put forward, aiming to better guide clinical practice.

Temporal research trends in parathyroid surgery

BackgroundProgress has been observed in the pathophysiology of calcium homeostasis, localization studies, and intraoperative adjuncts in parathyroid surgery. The aim of this study is to gain a comprehensive perspective on the research landscape of parathyroid surgery over time. MethodsA search of the Web of Science Core Collection was conducted to identify publications on parathyroid surgery from 1985 to 2024. Keywords were manually curated, and their frequencies were calculated based on the publication year. ResultsPublications on secondary hyperparathyroidism have decreased in recent years, but those on calcimimetics, tertiary hyperparathyroidism, and parathyroid cancer have increased. Publications related to sestamibi scans have decreased, while research on four-dimensional computed tomography and positron emission tomography has increased. Research on fluorescence and ablation treatment has recently been on the rise. The citation count per publication was positively correlated with the number of contributing institutions. ConclusionWe provide an overview of contemporary research themes and emerging topics related to parathyroid surgery. The endocrine surgery community could benefit from more inter-institutional partnerships to foster scientific progress.

Indications and technique for transoral thyroid gland and parathyroid gland surgery

The conventional Kocher collar incision is the standard access to the thyroid and parathyroid glands. Although the incision length has been significantly shortened in recent years with this approach, there is increasing interest among patients in asurgical technique without visible scars in the décolleté. Transoral endoscopic thyroid gland surgery via the vestibular approach (TOETVA) is amodern technique that can be learned relatively quickly and leaves no visible scars because it is carried out exclusively through anatural orifice (natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery, NOTES). For retrieval of larger specimens, the transoral approach can be combined with aretroauricular access and thus covers alarger range of indications. The indications must be strictly followed, analogous to conventional surgery. Once the transoral access has been established, the operation is carried out as in open surgery but strictly from cranial to caudal. The classical complications are comparable to the results of conventional surgery. Specific complications include perioral, mandibular or cervical dysesthesia and hypesthesia.

Effect of Delayed Parathyroidectomy on Risk of Future Cardiovascular and Nephrolithiasis Interventions in Adults with Primary Hyperparathyroidism [Original Study

To determine whether the timing of parathyroid surgery impacts the risk of renal stone retreatment and cardiovascular interventions. Long-term, untreated primary hyperparathyroidism is associated with significant morbidity including nephrolithiasis and cardiovascular disease. We conducted a Population-based Cohort study of New York and California state-wide data from 2000-2020. Adult patients who underwent renal stone treatment and subsequently diagnosed with primary hyperparathyroidism (pHPT) and underwent parathyroidectomy (PTX) were included. Patients were excluded if PTX was prior to index stone procedure, they underwent second stone treatment within 6 months, with stage V CKD, with secondary or tertiary hyperparathyroidism, with prior kidney transplant or hemodialysis, or with prior cancer diagnosis. Rate of renal stone retreatment and cardiovascular interventions after PTX in pHPT patients with nephrolithiasis who underwent parathyroid surgery at ≤ 2 years and >2 years after index stone procedure was measured. We identified 2,093 patients who underwent first-time stone treatment and subsequent PTX. The median time to PTX was 560 days (IQR 187-1477) and follow-up was 7.4 years (IQR 4.5-13.1). Delaying PTX for more than 2 years increased the risk of renal stone retreatment by 59% (HR 1.59; P<0.001), increased the risk of experiencing coronary disease or associated interventions by 118% (HR=2.18; P=0.01), and increased the risk of experiencing an overall cardiovascular event by 52% (HR 1.52; P<0.01). In symptomatic pHPT, delaying PTX significantly increases the risk of requiring future stone retreatment and cardiac/vascular surgical interventions. This highlights the importance of early surgical referral and multidisciplinary approaches to optimize outcomes and resource utilization in pHPT.

Same-day parathyroidectomy for primary hyperparathyroidism -an over 20-year practice.

There has been a shift in recent years toward same-day parathyroidectomies due to the decrease in mutual costs with few significant differences in postoperative morbidity or mortality. We sought to determine if demographics, preoperative patient risk factors, or comorbidities were associated with a patient's likelihood of having same-day or inpatient surgery. A prospective database of parathyroid operations from 2001 to 2022 (n=2948 patients) was reviewed for surgeries completed for primary hyperparathyroidism. Patients were categorized as same-day or inpatient surgery; demographics, risk factors, and co-morbidities were examined and differences across practice patterns during the 21-year period were studied and also analyzed in a subset of patients from 2013 to 2022. In a recent subset of patients from 2013 to 2022, patients having inpatient surgery were more likely to be Black and use anticoagulation or antiplatelet therapy. Multivariable regression confirmed increased odds of aging and black patients requiring inpatient parathyroidectomy. Compared to 2001-2003, there was a significantly increased proportion of patients undergoing same-day surgery; compared to 2010-2012, there was a similar proportion of patients undergoing outpatient surgery between 2013 and 2018, and there was an increased proportion from 2019 through 2022. Same-day parathyroidectomies have been shown to be safe and has become the typical practice for high-volume parathyroid surgeons over the last decade. Complications such as postoperative hematoma or hypocalcemia were previously shown to be incompletely mitigated by increased LOS or inpatient surgery, although demographics are considered to increase the odds of inpatient parathyroidectomy.

Initial Experience With Ultra-High-Definition 3D Exoscope in Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery.

Operation with a 3D exoscope has recently been introduced in clinical practice. The exoscope consists of two cameras placed in front of the operative field. Images are shown on a large 3D screen with high resolution. The system can be used to enhance precise dissection and provides new possibilities for improved ergonomics, fluorescence, and other optical-guided modalities. Initial experience with the ultra-high-definition (4K) 3D exoscope in thyroid and parathyroid operations. The exoscope (OrbEyeTM) was mounted on a holding system (Olympus). We used the exoscope in parathyroidectomy (N = 6) and thyroidectomy (N = 6). Immediate advantages and disadvantages were discussed and recorded. The learning curve for use of the exoscope may be shorter for surgeons with training in endoscopic or robotic procedures. There may be improved ergonomics compared with normal open-neck operations. Further, the optical guided operations can be used with fluorescence and have potential for different on-lay techniques in the future. The 4K 3D image quality is state-of-art and is highly appreciated during fine surgical dissection and eliminates the need for loupes. In several ways, using the ORBEYE™ in thyroid and parathyroid surgery provides the surgical team with a new and enhanced experience. This includes improved possibility for teaching, surgical ergonomics, and a 4K 3D camera with a powerful magnification system. However, it is not clear if utilization of these features would improve surgical outcomes. Furthermore, the ORBEYE™ lacks incorporation of parathyroid autofluorescence, and the current costs for the system do not facilitate general access to exoscope assisted operations.

Endoscopic assisted parathyroid surgery via a subclavian approach

Objective:To explore the safety and efficacy of airless endoscopic surgery in the treatment of parathyroid diseases. Methods:By retrospective comparison, clinical treatment of 26 patients with primary hyperparathyroidism admitted to the Department of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery of the Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University from January 2018 to January 2023 were collected. They were divided into traditional group（13 cases） and endoscopic group（13 cases） according to the surgical method. The traditional group underwent traditional open parathyroid surgery, and the endoscopic group underwent airless endoscopic surgery through the subclavian approach. The efficacy, postoperative incision pain, incidence of adverse events, and aesthetic effects of the two groups were evaluated. Results:A total of 26 patients were included, including 13 patients in the traditional group and 13 patients in the endoscopic group. There was no significant difference in the incidence of hypocalcemia and transient hypoparathyroidism on the first day after surgery between the two groups（P>0.05）. No patients with incision pain（>3 points） or swallowing pain were found in both groups after the operation, and they were afraid or unwilling to cough and expel phlegm. There were no significant differences in the amount of blood loss, duration of operation, incidence of temporary recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy and transient hypocalcemia, and postoperative pain score between the two groups. The endoscopic group's scar evaluation score and aesthetic effect satisfaction score at 6 months after surgery were higher than those of the traditional group（P<0.01）. Conclusion:Airless Endoscopic parathyroid surgery via the subclavian approach has good effectiveness and safety, which did not significantly increase the risk of surgery. It can safely remove the lesion and leave no surgical scar on the anterior neck, which has the advantage of a good cosmetic effect. It is a safe and feasible endoscopic parathyroid surgery and can be used as a new choice for patients undergoing parathyroid surgery.