Normal and Abnormal Function of the Parathyroid Glands. How these small glands regulate the body's calcium.
Hyperparathyroidism (overactivity of the parathyroid gland). How overproduction of parathyroid hormone weakens bones, produces kidney stones, and causes lots of other moans and groans.
Symptoms of Hyperparathyroidism. Sometimes you feel just fine, how could it be a problem?
Diagnosis of Hyperparathyroidism. The essentials to determine if this problem exists and what to do about it.
Treatment of Hyperparathyroidism. Simple removal of the enlarged, overactive gland will provide permanent cure the disease. Includes the standard operative approach which is highly successful, as well as the newer technique of Radioguided Minimally Invasive Parathyroidectomy (MIRP). This mini-operation typically takes less than 19 minutes and has a cure rate of about 99%!
How Minimally Invasive Radioguided Parathyroidectomy is performed ![new.gif (144 bytes)]()
(read the intro page first).
Localization of Parathyroid Tumors. How and when to identify which of the four parathyroid glands is over-active prior to surgery. Includes advanced techniques for Sestamibi and SPECT scanning and even some video!
Where do the Parathyroids come from? If you understand this page then you will understand why parathyroid glands can be hard to find, even when they are enlarged. Covers normal and abnormal parathyroid anatomy. Don't start here, its a little more advanced.
Osteoporosis and Hyperparathyroidism. What are the problems and what can be done about it?
Includes the effect of advanced age, menopause, and calcium treatments.
Hypoparathyroidism. Too little parathyroid hormone is very rare, usually because of previous surgery. (Don't confuse this with hyper-parathyroidism which is MUCH more common).
Hope this helps!
Minnie
