Outcomes of concurrent parathyroidectomy and thyroidectomy among CESQIP surgeons

Background: Studies comparing endocrine-specific outcomes following parathyroidectomy (PTx) versus concurrent parathyroidectomy and thyroidectomy (PTx + Tx) are few. Methods: 10,019 patients were selected from the Collaborative Endocrine Surgery Quality Improvement Program (2014-2019). Baseline characteristics and short-term (<= 30 days) outcomes for PTx + Tx vs PTx patients were compared using bivariate and multivariable methods. Results: PTx + Tx patients were more likely to experience clinical hypoparathyroidism (6.7% vs 0.5%, p < 0.001), recurrent laryngeal nerve transection, (0.4% vs 0.1%, p = 0.002) and hematoma requiring evacuation (1.0% vs 0.2%, p < 0.001). Readmissions and ED visits for hypocalcemia were more frequent after PTx + Tx vs PTx. Concurrent surgery was associated with an 8-fold increase in risk of short-term complications (Odds Ratio (OR): 8.0, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 5.7-11.1, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Patients undergoing PTx + Tx have increased rates of postoperative complications, ED visits, and readmissions compared to patients undergoing parathyroidectomy alone. These findings could help guide surgeon-patient discussions on the risks of concurrent surgery.

Automated summary

Patients undergoing concurrent parathyroidectomy and thyroidectomy have higher rates of postoperative complications, emergency department visits, and readmissions compared to patients undergoing parathyroidectomy alone. These findings should be taken into consideration in surgeon-patient discussions regarding the risks of concurrent surgery.