Changes in Imaging Utilization for Primary Hyperparathyroidism

Primary hyperparathyroidism is now largely managed surgically via minimally invasive techniques. This shift was aided by preoperative imaging, which saw drastic increases in utilization in the 1990s. Since then, it is unclear how the role of preoperative imaging has changed with regard to surgical management of primary hyperparathyroidism. This study aims to describe the trend in preoperative localization techniques for surgical management of primary hyperparathyroidism using career data from two endocrine surgeons over the last 20 years.

Parathyroid case data was obtained from two endocrine surgeons spanning two institutions from 2000-2018. Demographic and clinical data was obtained for each patient at the time of surgery, including record of any preoperative imaging performed. Data was analyzed temporally using four 5-year periods to evaluate changes in imaging utilization over time.

1734 patients were identified who underwent parathyroidectomy for primary hyperparathyroidism. Mean age of the cohort was 60 years (range 10-94) with 78% being female. Overall, we identified a significant decrease in imaging utilization over the time periods (see table, P < .05). Ultrasound and CT use increased, while frequency of sestamibi and thallium-technetium scans decreased. Length of stay was also noted to decrease over time. There was no significant difference in cure rates between the four time periods, though recurrence was found to decrease over time.

The rates of preoperative imaging and length of stay decreased over time for surgical management of primary hyperparathyroidism. Despite the decrease in imaging, cure rates have appeared to remain the same.