Post thyroid surgery hypoparathyroidism long term follow ups

[janetdmp]

Post thyroid surgery hypoparathyroidism long term follow ups (posted under Thyroid surgery also) – What tests should be done and how frequent should they be?

If a patient is still presenting with mild symptoms of hypoparathyroidism on a daily basis (two or more years after surgery) what care should they expect and from whom (surgeon, endocrinologist, GP)?

Is it true that calcium levels fluctuate throughout the day? If so, is an annual calcium blood test done at approximately the same time of the day each year an accurate measure to provide effective management of the condition?

[Dr Petros Perros]

The calcium level should me monitored regularly until it is stable. In most cases the hypopapathyroidism after thyroidectomy is transient and it is worth trying to come off alfacalcidol and calcium under supervision by a doctor. Once stable the calcium level can eb monitored 1-2 time annually.
The aim should be to ameliorate any symptoms of a low calcium, keep the calcium level at teh low end of the nromal range and ensure that the calcium excreted in urine is not excessive.

Endcorinologists, thyroid surgeons and many other specialist doctors and some experienced nurses can supervise treatment.