Intraoperative imprints for the identification of parathyroid tissue

Parathyroid exploration involves identification of all accessible parathyroid glands and the distinguishing of normal and pathologic parathyroid glands. Close collaboration of the surgeon and the surgical pathologist is characterized by courtesy and efficiency with special techniques by each that facilitate accuracy and speed, particularly at the conclusion of the surgical exploration when the biopsy specimens have been passed to the pathologist on a "parathyroid map" and the patient remains anesthetized. Parathyroid imprint by touch preparation technique allowed cytologic examination in less than 1 minute per specimen, with ready identification of the presence or absence of parathyroid tissue. Pathologic diagnoses were also possible on abnormal parathyroid glands when the parathyroid imprint was used as a screening procedure to select specimens for frozen section. Accuracy and speed were excellent as used in this series of parathyroid surgical pathology consultations. Intraoperative imprint confirmation of parathyroid tissue is suggested as an improvement in pathologic consultation during parathyroid exploration.