Parathyroid Disorders

Parathyroid disorders, encompassing conditions that affect the small but vital parathyroid glands in your neck, can have a significant impact on your body’s calcium levels and overall well-being. Whether dealing with hyperparathyroidism or hypoparathyroidism, our expert endocrinology team is committed to offering you personalised and compassionate care.

Also known as: calcium imbalance management, hyperparathyroidism treatment, hypoparathyroidism treatment

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Everything You Need to Know

Parathyroid disorders arise when the parathyroid glands, which are crucial for regulating the body’s calcium levels, either produce too much or not enough parathyroid hormone. This imbalance can lead to a range of symptoms, from fatigue and weakness to more severe complications like kidney stones or osteoporosis.

Understanding the importance of accurate diagnosis and effective treatment, we at St John & Elizabeth Hospital provide a comprehensive approach to managing parathyroid disorders. From advanced diagnostic tests to innovative treatment options, including minimally invasive surgery for hyperparathyroidism, our dedicated team ensures you receive the care you need to restore your health and maintain your quality of life.

For individuals experiencing the often subtle signs of a parathyroid disorder, our specialists are here to support you with expert advice, empathetic care, and cutting-edge treatment solutions.

Before Treatment

Your journey towards managing a parathyroid disorder begins with a detailed consultation with one of our specialist endocrinologists. In this initial meeting, we’ll delve into your medical history, symptoms, and any previous tests you’ve undergone. Understanding your condition thoroughly enables us to propose the most suitable treatment options, which may range from careful monitoring and medication to surgical intervention for more severe cases.

Preparing for your treatment, especially if surgery is needed, involves several steps to ensure your safety and the best outcomes. This preparation might include adjusting your medication, dietary modifications to manage calcium levels, or specific instructions if you’re undergoing a parathyroidectomy. Our dedicated team will guide you through these preparations, ensuring you feel fully informed and supported throughout the process.

During Treatment

Treatment for parathyroid disorders at St John & Elizabeth Hospital is personalised to your specific needs, ensuring the highest standards of care and comfort.

Arrival and Preparation

Upon your arrival, our compassionate staff will welcome you and guide you through the last steps of preparation, reaffirming your treatment plan and answering any last-minute questions. For those undergoing parathyroidectomy, you’ll be taken to our state-of-the-art operating rooms, designed for maximum safety and efficiency.

Anaesthesia and Procedure

Parathyroidectomy is typically performed under general anaesthesia, ensuring you’re comfortable and pain-free throughout the surgery. Our experienced anaesthetists and surgical teams use the latest techniques and technology to minimise discomfort and promote a swift recovery.

The procedure itself varies depending on the extent of the disorder, with our surgeons aiming to remove only the affected gland(s) while preserving the healthy ones, ensuring a meticulous balance of your calcium levels post-surgery.

Immediate Post-Procedure Care

Immediately after your treatment or surgery, we focus on your comfort and the initial recovery process. Our team provides comprehensive post-operative care, including pain management, instructions for wound care, and monitoring your calcium levels closely to prevent any immediate complications.

After Treatment

Recovery and ongoing care are crucial for achieving the best outcomes following treatment for parathyroid disorders.

Immediate Post-Treatment Care

Our team will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions before you leave the hospital. These instructions will include how to manage any surgical sites, medication adjustments, and signs to monitor that may require prompt attention.

Recovery at Home

The recovery period can vary depending on the type of treatment received. Most patients can resume their daily activities fairly quickly, though specific recommendations will be given based on your personal situation and the type of treatment you’ve undergone.

How to pay for your treatment

If you’re… paying for yourself

Did you know you don’t need private medical insurance to come to St John & St Elizabeth Hospital? As a self-pay patient, you can access safe, outstanding quality health care at times to suit you.

For scans and tests, as well as to see most consultants, you’ll still need to be referred by a medical professional like your GP, but as a self-pay patient, the process is more straightforward. You won’t need authorisation from an insurance provider, and you’ll have greater choice of consultant and appointment times.

If you’re… insured

St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is approved by all major medical insurance companies. If you have a personal private health insurance policy, or your company provide it for you, you can use it to pay for your care from your initial consultation through to treatment, surgery and aftercare such as physiotherapy. Not all private health insurance plans cover the same things. It’s very important to check exactly what you are covered for with your insurance provider.

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Appointment

Your first step is a detailed consultation with our endocrinology team. This appointment involves a thorough review of your symptoms, medical history, and any previous treatments or tests you’ve undergone related to your parathyroid condition.

Diagnostic Assessment

To accurately diagnose your parathyroid disorder, we may conduct a series of blood tests to measure calcium and parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels, alongside advanced imaging techniques like ultrasound or Sestamibi scans to visualise the parathyroid glands.

Treatment Plan

Based on your diagnostic results, we’ll discuss the most appropriate treatment options with you. This could range from medication management to surgical intervention for more significant cases. Our goal is to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about your care.

Preparation Guidance

Should you opt for surgery, such as a parathyroidectomy, we’ll guide you through the necessary pre-operative preparations. This includes any adjustments to medications, dietary advice to manage calcium levels, and specific instructions to follow leading up to your surgery, ensuring you’re fully prepared for the procedure.