What should I do after parathyroidectomy?
parathyroidectomic surgery involves removing parathoroid glands in the throat. The operation is relatively uncomplicated and patients do not have to stay in the hospital overnight. After parathyroidectomy, recovery is generally fast, but patients may need to take calcium supplements. Some procedures require stitches that must be kept clean and removed when the wound heals. There are usually four glands. Sometimes the glands produce too many hormones, thus adversely affecting calcium levels and causing problems such as kidney stones, osteoporosis and fatigue. Otherwise, harmless tumors can enlarge the glands and cause them to act abnormally. The doctor may remove one gland or remove the entire half of one gland to help control the hormone levels in the body.
One or more small cuts in general, the surgeon is sufficient for surgery. Some procedures do not require stitches butOthers use a stitch in the wound that you have to remove several days after the operation.
Immediately after parathyroidectomy, the neck can have a drainage tube for one or more day and you may need to wear drip. It is not recommended to eat solid foods for a day or two after the procedure. Removing the glands can also cause low blood calcium, so you may need to go to a doctor for frequent blood samples. If you feel symptoms of low calcium, such as muscle cramps or tingling, your doctor can recommend regular calcium supplements.
As long as the sutrere is removed, you must maintain the area clean and dry to reduce the chance of infection. If an infection occurs, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics that you should take according to his instructions. Aspirin can reduce the ability of blood to clot, so you may need to avoid aspirin directly after the operation for several days. You can usually return to work in a few weeks.
After parathyroidectomy, patients take up to three weeks to recover, although the doctor can advise you to prevent the wound from direct sunlight for six months. You may need to take part in a six -day check that includes another blood test of the calcium. The doctor may also recommend that you have annual checks for five years after the procedure.