Parathyroid surgery in chronic renal failure

In hyperparathyroidism associated with endstage renal failure, either subtotal, or total parathyroidectomy with autotransplantation have been advocated as potentially curative for those patients non-responsive to medical therapy. Seventeen such patients managed by the Wellington renal unit were reviewed as to indications for, and responses to, surgery. Itch, psychiatric symptoms, joint ache, muscular weakness, gritty eyes and thirst were the major symptoms for which surgery was recommended. Hypercalcaemia (universal in women) and deterioration in bone radiology were additional indications for operation. All showed remarkable postoperative improvement. Symptomatic hypocalcaemia was significant in 41%. This observation has led to intensified pre- and postoperative vitamin D and calcium therapy. Postoperative radiologic improvement at three months was apparent in 80% of patients. We advocate subtotal parathyroidectomy as the effective surgical treatment of choice for uraemic hyperparathyroidism.