Etymed
parathyroidectomy
Definition
Surgical removal of the parathyroid glands
Clinical context
A 65-year-old woman presents with severe bone pain and kidney stones. Laboratory studies reveal significantly elevated serum calcium levels and suppressed parathyroid hormone levels. Imaging demonstrates a large parathyroid adenoma. The patient undergoes parathyroidectomy and her symptoms resolve completely postoperatively.
Mnemonic
PARATHYROID - P for Parathyroid, A for Adenoma, R for Removal, A for Action, T for Tumor, H for Hormone, Y for Yearning, R for Resection, D for Disease