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The vicious cycle: hyperventilation-induced alkalosis mimicking refractory hypocalcaemia after thyroidectomy
Louis Britten-Jones1, Nicholas Shannon1, Bruce Ashford1,2
1Department of General Surgery, Wollongong Hospital, Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia.
Journal of Surgical Case Reports
|April 30, 2026
Summary
Postoperative hypoparathyroidism after thyroidectomy can be complicated by respiratory alkalosis, which lowers calcium levels. Recognizing and managing this condition is crucial for effective treatment and preventing complications like refractory hypocalcemia.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Neurosurgery
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Postoperative hypoparathyroidism is a common complication after total thyroidectomy.
- Management typically involves calcium supplementation guided by biochemical monitoring.
- The impact of respiratory alkalosis on postoperative calcium levels is often under-recognized.
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