Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 4, 2026

Establishment of a Simple and Effective Rat Model for Intraoperative Parathyroid Gland Imaging
Published on: August 17, 2022
The role of computed tomography for localization of parathyroid adenomas
Philip B Zald1, Bronwyn E Hamilton, Michael L Larsen
1Department of Otolaryngology, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland, Oregon 97239, USA.
Objective/Hypothesis:
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of computed tomography (CT) for localization of parathyroid adenomas (PA) when first-line imaging is indeterminate.
Study Design:
Retrospective case series.
Methods:
A search of operating room and radiology records identified 223 surgical explorations for primary hyperparathyroidism. Adenoma locations on CT, ultrasound, and nuclear scintigraphy were correlated with an independent review of operative records.
Results:
The presence of adenoma in the correct side and quadrant of the neck was predicted by CT in 89% and 77% of studies, respectively. When first-line studies were indeterminate, the positive predictive value of CT for localization of PA to the correct side and quadrant of the neck was 87% and 69%, respectively.
Conclusions:
When first-line localization studies are indeterminate in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism, CT is a valuable, rapid, and widely available imaging modality that can be used to localize PA.
Related Concept Videos
Imaging Studies III: Computed Tomography
Computed Tomography
The technique was invented in the 1970s and is based on the principle that as X-rays pass through the body, they are absorbed or reflected at different levels. In the technique, a patient lies on a motorized platform while a computerized axial tomography (CAT) scanner rotates...
The Parathyroid Glands
Oxyphil cells, whose functions remain elusive, emerge during late puberty, adding a layer of complexity to the parathyroid gland's intricacies. In contrast, principal parathyroid cells undertake a vital role by producing...
Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System V: CT
Positron Emission Tomography
One of the main requirements of a PET scan is a positron-emitting radioisotope, which is produced in a cyclotron and then attached to a substance used by the part of the body being...
Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System VI: Calcium -Scoring CT
