Thoracoscopic resection of an ectopic giant parathyroid adenoma: indication, technique, and three years follow-up

We report on a case of a large mediastinal parathyroid adenoma resected successfully using a thoracoscopic approach. Apart from a slight hypocalcemia, which normalized within three days, the patient recovered quickly and was discharged with an excellent functional and cosmetic result. 36 months after the operation no symptoms of recurrency of hyperparathyroidism were evident and laboratory results were normal. Complete thoracoscopic removal of mediastinal parathyroid adenoma seems to be possible as demonstrated by this example.