The technique of endoscopic exploration for parathyroid adenoma of the neck.
BACKGROUND
The technical details of endoscopic exploration of parathyroid adenoma are described here, thereby drawing attention to the enormous potential of this new modality of minimal-access surgery.


METHODS
Four patients with a parathyroid adenoma that was clearly demonstrated by pre-operative localization imaging techniques were subject to endoscopic exploration using one 11 mm and two 5 mm ports: a technique heretofore undescribed.


RESULTS
An adenoma was successfully localized endoscopically in each case and was removed. The postoperative outcome proved most encouraging: no analgesics were required, the hypercalcaemia rapidly corrected and the patients were pleased with the smallness of scars.


CONCLUSIONS
The described endoscopic approach is a viable and promising alternative to open surgery for parathyroid adenoma; further study would be fruitful.
Yeung
G H
GH
Department of Surgery, Yan Chai Hospital, Tsuen Wan, Hong Kong.
Ng
J W
JW
D000236:Adenoma / Q000601:surgery*; D000368:Aged; D004724:Endoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D019060:Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures; D009333:Neck; D010282:Parathyroid Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery*; D016105:Parathyroidectomy / Q000379:methods*