Parathyroid surgery: what the radiologists need to know

Hyperparathyroidism represents by a varied spectrum of presentations, from those individuals who have overt symptoms directly attributable to hypercalcemia to those who are asymptomatic at diagnosis. Indications for surgical intervention in the asymptomatic population have changed as the long-term experience with these patients has grown. Use of additional imaging techniques to aid localization and a detailed understanding of the anatomy can be critical to a successful operative outcome. This article discusses the pertinent issues that surround the current surgical management of parathyroid disease with a focus on epidemiology, surgical anatomy, and operative strategies.