Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of subtotal parathyroidectomy performed in end stage renal disease patients for secondary hyperparathyroidism in our center.Materials and Methods: The study involved 36 consecutive patients. Preoperative and postoperative clinical signs and symptoms, parathormon, calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase and surgical complications were evaluated. Results: 36 patients remain cured at a mean follow up time 28.4±20 months. None of the patients required resection of parathyroid remnant. Preoperative high parathormon levels (mean 1536.3±674.6 pg/ml) decreased (mean 128±91 pg/ml) during follow-up period. Preoperative mean serum calcium level was 10.4±0.8 mg/100 ml and the mean serum phosphorus level was 6.2±1.7 mg/100 ml. During follow up period, the mean serum calcium level was 8.1±1.2 mg/100 ml (7.7 to 10 mg/100 ml) and the mean serum phosphorus level was 4.7±1.4 mg/100 ml (4.1 to 6.6 mg/100 ml). Serum alkaline phosphatase returned to normal after the operation (mean 172±49 U/L). Preoperative symptoms such as pruritis and fatigue improved after operation. Two patients treated successfully for symptomatic hypocalcemia in the early postoperative period. Conclusion: Parathyroidectomy still remains the important therapeutic option for secondary hyperparathyroidism associated with end stage renal disease. Our results indicate that subtotal parathyroidectomy is the effective treatment for secondary hyperparathyroidism.