Total parathyroidectomy with forearm autograft in the treatment of uremic patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism

Objective To analyze the efficacy and safety of total parathyroidectomy (PTX) with forearm autograft in uremic patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT). Methods One hundred and eighteen cases undergoing PTX with forearm autograft in our hospital from 2001-2010 were included in this study. Their preoperative and postoperative serum intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH), biochemistry tests (total calcium，inorganic phosphate and alkaline phosphate) were collected and postoperative symptom relief, complications and recurrence were investigated. Results Of all the 118 cases, 32 underwent endoscopic surgery and 86 open surgery. The surgery was performed successfully in 110 cases (93.2%) and one case died in perioperative period. Thyroid carcinoma was diagnosed during surgery in 2 cases and radical operation was performed at the same time. Temporary injury of recurrent laryngeal nerve was found in nine cases (7.6%). Postoperative hypocalcemia was frequently seen in 108 cases (91.5%) and it was effectively controlled by postoperative calcium administration. After operation, bone pain and itching were alleviated, and weakness, anemia and malnutrition status were improved in all the cases who received successful surgery. The postoperative levels of serum iPTH (P＜0.01), calcium (P＜0.01), phosphorus (P＜0.01) and calcium×phosphorus (P＜0.01) were decreased significantly than those in preoperative period. A long-term follow-up of over 3 years was carried out in 21 cases. Six cases recurred, among them, 4 cases relieved after removal of autografted parethroid tissue, and another two cases received the second operation. The longest follow-up period lasted for 9 years in two cases without recurrence. Conclusions PTX with forearm autograft is safe and effective in the treatment for uremic patients with SHPT. No severe complication is found during the long-term follow-up period.