About Parathyroid Cancer
Key Highlights
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Curative intent surgery aimed at removing the primary cancer.Helps normalize dangerously high blood calcium levels (hypercalcemia).Can prevent the spread (metastasis) of cancer to other organs.Performed by a specialist (Surgical Oncologist) with expertise in neck anatomy and cancer surgery.May involve a multidisciplinary approach for comprehensive care.
Who is this surgery for?
- Confirmed diagnosis of parathyroid carcinoma via biopsy or highly suspicious imaging.
- Severe, symptomatic hypercalcemia that is difficult to manage medically.
- Presence of a palpable neck mass associated with high PTH and calcium levels.
- Evidence of local invasion into surrounding structures (e.g., thyroid, recurrent laryngeal nerve).
- Suspected or confirmed metastasis to regional lymph nodes.
How to prepare
- Comprehensive diagnostic workup including blood tests (PTH, calcium), ultrasound, and sestamibi scan.
- Imaging studies like CT or MRI of the neck and chest to assess tumor extent.
- Consultations with an endocrinologist and anesthesiologist.
- Pre-operative management of hypercalcemia with fluids and medications (bisphosphonates, calcimimetics).
- Informed consent discussion detailing the procedure, risks, and alternatives.
- Fasting as instructed by the surgical team, typically from midnight before surgery.
Risks & possible complications
- Damage to the recurrent laryngeal nerve, leading to hoarseness or voice changes.
- Hypoparathyroidism (low calcium levels) requiring lifelong supplementation.
- Bleeding or hematoma formation in the neck.
- Infection at the surgical site.
- Injury to nearby structures like the esophagus or trachea.
- Scar formation or keloids.
- Persistent or recurrent disease if cancer cells remain.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Initial hospital stay for monitoring calcium levels, pain, and surgical site.
- Blood calcium levels are closely monitored; IV or oral calcium supplements are given if needed.
- Pain is managed with prescribed medications.
- Incision care instructions will be provided; the neck may feel stiff and sore.
- Follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor calcium, PTH levels, and check for recurrence.
- Voice therapy may be recommended if hoarseness persists.
- A gradual return to normal activities is advised, avoiding heavy lifting initially.
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Typical hospital stay: 3-7 days
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Expected recovery time: 2-4 weeks for initial recovery; 6-8 weeks for full activity
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering parathyroid cancer in Turkey, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Top-rated hospitals in Turkey with surgical oncology departments and experienced surgeons are ideal for this procedure. Use MediFyr to compare facilities, reviews, and doctor profiles before you decide.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform parathyroid cancer. MediFyr helps you compare surgical oncologists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for parathyroid cancer compare across other countries where we have data.
As a young professional with a...
As a young professional with a hectic schedule, Dr. Acharya’s team accommodated my follow-ups efficiently without ever making me feel rushed. His balance of expertise and empathy is rare in surgical fields.