Minimally Invasive Parathyroidectomy Promising Under Local Sedation

Newswise — Parathyroidectomy is the removal of one or more of the parathyroid glands to treat hyperparathyroidism (abnormal over-functioning of the parathyroid glands). The procedure requires the patient to go under general anesthesia, which includes greater risks and requires a hospital stay for one or more days.

However, results from a study presented at the 2007 AAO-HNSF Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO indicate that this procedure can be done under local anesthesia, avoiding potential problems of general anesthesia, possible intubation complications, and post-op nausea/vomiting. The prospective study included 168 patients with primary hyperparathyroidism undergoing parathyroidectomy under local anesthesia with intravenous sedation. Findings of the study indicate that by utilizing a targeted approach, local sedation can be used safely and successfully in parathyroidectomy and is preferred by most patients. Additionally, procedures done under local anesthesia reduces operative time and may have cost-saving potential regarding hospital stays.

Title: Minimally Invasive Parathyroidectomy Under Local/SedationAuthors: Maisie L. Shindo, MD, Joshua Rosenthal, MD, and Thomas D. Lee, MDDate: Monday, Sep 17, 9:02 am - 9:10 am

Information for the MediaThe AAO-HNS Annual Meeting newsroom will be located in Registration East, Street Level of the Washington, DC Convention Center. Hours of operation: Saturday, September 15, 12 pm to 5 pm; Sunday - Tuesday, September 16 -18, 7:30 am to 5 pm; and Wednesday, September 19, 7:30 am to 2 pm. The newsroom serves as a work space for credentialed members of the media and credentialed public relations staff. The newsroom is managed and staffed by the AAO-HNS Communications Unit. Please see the AAO-HNS website for media credentialing requirements for the event - http://www.entnet.org/ent-press/online_reg.cfm.

About the AAO-HNSThe American Academy of Otolaryngology " Head and Neck Surgery (http://www.entnet.org), one of the oldest medical associations in the nation, represents more than 12,000 physicians and allied health professionals who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the ears, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. The Academy serves its members by facilitating the advancement of the science and art of medicine related to otolaryngology and by representing the specialty in governmental and socioeconomic issues. The organization's mission: "Working for the Best Ear, Nose, and Throat Care."