Durability of Focused Minimally Invasive Parathyroidectomy in Young Patients with Sporadic Primary Hyperparathyroidism

Background

Historically, multigland hyperplasia was believed to be the predominant cause of primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) in young patients, and hence a relative contraindication for minimally invasive parathyroidectomy. Recent studies, however, demonstrate that the most common aetiology across all age groups is a solitary functioning adenoma. The aim of this study was to compare long-term outcomes in young patients (≤45 years), especially those under 30 years of age, with their older counterparts (>45 years) following focused minimally invasive parathyroidectomy (FMIP).

Materials and Methods

Patients ≤45 years who underwent FMIP between January 1999 and December 2007 were identified from an endocrine surgery database and compared with a matched control group of patients >45 years old also undergoing FMIP within that time period. The patients’ most recent calcium levels (≥6 months postoperatively) were examined to establish recurrence rates. Recurrence was defined as an elevation of serum calcium more than 6 months after surgery following initial postsurgical normocalcemia.

Results

A total of 117 patients ≤45 years and 160 patients >45 years who underwent FMIP were examined. Follow-up calcium levels were available for 72% of patients. The median length of follow-up was 46 months. No recurrences were identified in both the younger and older cohort of patients; therefore, no statistically significant difference in rates of recurrence could be determined between age groups.

Conclusion

Recurrence of PHPT following FMIP is rare with no evidence of a higher incidence in younger patients. FMIP can be safely offered to young patients as a long-term durable treatment option.