Hypomagnesemia associated with hypocalcemia after total thyroidectomy: an observational study

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Surgical Oncology
• Nephrology

Background:

• Serum magnesium levels are often reduced in patients experiencing hypocalcemia post-thyroidectomy.
• Thyroidectomy can lead to significant electrolyte imbalances, particularly affecting calcium and magnesium homeostasis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the changes in serum magnesium and calcium concentrations following total thyroidectomy.
• To determine the relationship between serum magnesium and calcium levels in the early postoperative period.

Main Methods:

• An observational study involving 142 patients undergoing total thyroidectomy.
• Serum calcium and magnesium levels were measured preoperatively and on postoperative day one.
• Incidence of postoperative hypocalcemia and hypomagnesemia were compared.

Main Results:

• Out of 142 total thyroidectomies, 54 patients (38%) developed hypocalcemia post-surgery.
• Patients with hypocalcemia showed a significantly greater decrease in serum magnesium compared to those with normal calcemia (0.125 ± 0.065 mmol/L vs. 0.035 ± 0.020 mmol/L, P=0.0002).

Conclusions:

• Postoperative hypomagnesemia is strongly associated with early-onset hypocalcemia after thyroidectomy.
• These findings highlight the importance of monitoring magnesium levels in thyroidectomy patients to anticipate and manage hypocalcemia.