Short summary

In the present study, all Danish patients operated for a disease of the parathyroid gland are registered. Data covers symptoms, diagnostic imaging, surgical procedures and possible complications. The aim of the study is to estimate the importance of patient-related factors, diagnostic process, operation method and surgical experience for curing and avoiding complications for patients operated for diseases of the parathyroid glands.

Rationale

In Denmark about 500 operations on the parathyroid glands are carried out each year. The background is usually small benign tumors that affect calcium metabolism (primary hyperparathyroidism) but other factors are also applicable.

The diagnostic process is complicated with the use of both nuclear medicine and anatomical imaging data, such as ultrasound and CT. The surgical technique is challenging and the chance of success depends on correct localization diagnostics. Complications such as bleeding, infection and hoarseness may occur. The latter due to the close relation between the parathyroid glands and the nerves to the vocal cords.

Danish data of parathyroid surgery including changes in the number of procedures, indications, complications and operative results has never been analyzed on a national level. At present, no national studies of the connection between success rate and patient-related factors, diagnostic process, operation method and surgical experience have been published.

The purpose of the present study is to estimate the importance of patient-related factors, diagnostic process, operation method and surgical experience for curing and avoiding complications for patients operated for diseases of the parathyroid glands.

Description of the cohort

The project is a national study including all patients undergoing surgical treatment of diseases of the parathyroid glands. 

Data and biological material

The Clinical data of the present project includes preoperative data such as symptoms, imaging and levels of PTH and calcium. Moreover, details of the surgical procedures will be collected. These include type of incision, use of drainage and nerve stimulation. Finally, postoperative information of possible complications and details of histology will be registered.

Collaborating researchers and departments

Department of Ear-Nose-Throat Surgery, Aalborg University Hospital

• Consultant Søren Dammand Henriksen

Department of Ear-Nose-Throat Surgery, Hillerød Hospital

• Consultant Waldemar Trolle

• Consultant Overlæge Christoffer Holst Hahn

Department of Ear-Nose-Throat Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital

• Consultant Sten Schytte