Initial experience with probe-based near-infrared autofluorescence for intraoperative parathyroid identification...

Accurate intraoperative identification of parathyroid glands is essential to prevent hypoparathyroidism after thyroidectomy. Near-infrared autofluorescence is an emerging adjunct, and the PTeye system enables real-time, label-free detection of parathyroid tissue. We report an initial case series of three patients undergoing total thyroidectomy, with or without central lymphadenectomy, in a spoke center. PTeye was used intraoperatively to assist parathyroid identification. Three patients (68M, 57F, 49F) underwent surgery, with operative times of 88, 66, and 73 min. In all cases, PTeye enabled identification of four parathyroid glands without interfering with neuromonitoring. No inadvertent parathyroidectomy was observed. Postoperative calcium and parathyroid hormone levels remained within normal ranges. PTeye appears to be a feasible and safe adjunct for parathyroid identification during thyroidectomy. Further studies are required to confirm its impact on clinical outcomes.