Parathyroid Surgery Specialist Near Birmingham, AL

The parathyroid glands are small endocrine glands located behind the thyroid gland. The main function of the parathyroid glands is to regulate calcium levels in the blood through production of parathyroid hormone (PTH). While many of us assume calcium only pertains to strengthening our bones and teeth, this vital mineral actually does much more. Calcium assists in the functionality of every cell in the body from muscle and heart contractility to appropriate neuronal function, making any irregularities in an individual’s calcium levels a serious health problem.

Board-certified general surgeon Dr. Justin Malek brings a wealth of expertise to the treatment of parathyroid disorders through his advanced surgical techniques. In addition to his board certification in general surgery, Dr. Malek has demonstrated a dedication to treating surgical endocrine disorders by spending an additional year of surgical training specifically in endocrine surgery at Emory University.  Dr. Malek utilizes a minimally invasive approach to ensure precise operations with reduced recovery time and minimal scarring. His commitment to personalized care means each patient receives a tailored treatment plan designed to address their specific parathyroid condition effectively. Call (205) 595-8985 to schedule a consultation at our general surgery clinic in Birmingham, AL today.

Common Parathyroid Disorders

If your parathyroid glands produce too much or too little PTH, it disrupts the balance of calcium and phosphorus in the body, which can cause a multitude of symptoms such as osteoporosis, osteopenia, kidney stones, abdominal cramps, forgetfulness, among others. Common diseases of the parathyroid include:

• Primary hyperparathyroidism:
  • This is the most common cause of parathyroid disease. Parathyroid hormone is overproduced due to benign parathyroid adenoma, hyperplasia, or carcinoma. This particular disorder is diagnosed using a blood test and a 24-hour urine collection to analyze the person’s calcium levels. Surgery is indicated to remove the abnormal glands and restore normal calcium levels.
• Secondary hyperparathyroidism:
  • This type of parathyroid disorder develops as a result of chronically low blood calcium levels and high phosphorous levels. The most common cause for secondary hyperparathyroidism is kidney failure and some instances of patients who have had bariatric surgery. Symptoms of the condition include thirst, loss of appetite, constipation, joint pain, and depression.
• Tertiary hyperparathyroidism:
  • This parathyroid disorder occurs in patients who have undergone kidney transplant and continue to have a hyperfunctioning parathyroid gland. Surgery is beneficial to prolong the life of the transplanted kidney.
• Hypoparathyroidism:
  • Hypoparathyroidism is caused by an underactive parathyroid, which results in low calcium and phosphorous levels. Common symptoms of hypoparathyroidism include muscle cramps, pain, difficulty walking, seizures, dry skin, loss of memory, and nervousness.

Parathyroid Surgery Options

Dr. Justin Malek offers minimally invasive parathyroid surgery options to treat all parathyroid conditions. The majority of patients can go home on the day of surgery.

• Minimally Invasive Parathyroidectomy: This procedure involves removing one or more of the parathyroid glands to treat hyperparathyroidism.
• Bilateral Neck Exploration for Hyperparathyroidism: Bilateral neck exploration for hyperparathyroidism is used to treat the more complex cases of hyperparathyroidism or if more than one parathyroid gland are involved. In the procedure, all parathyroid organs are explored for potential disease and removed if necessary.

Sources:

https://www.emedicinehealth.com/hyperparathyroidism/article_em.htm#what_is_hyperparathyroidism

https://www.parathyroid.com/treatment-surgery.htm

http://endocrinediseases.org/parathyroid/symptoms_summary.shtml