Thoracoscopic resection of ectopic parathyroid glands

BACKGROUND: The vast majority of parathyroid glands in hyperparathyroidism can be resected through a cervical approach. In approximately 2% of the cases, the ectopic gland is in the mediastinum in a location that requires a thoracic approach. METHODS: We report 7 such cases that were resected using video-assisted thoracic surgery to avoid the need for an open surgical procedure. RESULTS: All glands were successfully identified preoperatively and subsequently resected. Hospital stay averaged less than 3 days with only one minor complication. CONCLUSIONS: Ectopic mediastinal parathyroid glands may be safely and accurately resected using video-assisted thoracic surgery to avoid open approaches.