Overview
In a parathyroidectomy procedure a small horizontal incision is created just under the Adam's apple to get access to the parathyroid glands. Parathyroidectomy is recommended when the parathyroid glands produce excessive amounts of parathyroid hormone (hyperparathyroidism). After surgery, complete healing without complications usually occurs within 4 weeks. The long term outlook is excellent.
Review Date 8/22/2022
Updated by: Debra G. Wechter, MD, FACS, General Surgery Practice Specializing in Breast Cancer, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.