Surgical treatment of secondary and tertiary hyperparathyroidism.

All patients with chronic renal failure have secondary hyperparathyroidism shown by elevated serum parathormone. Medical and surgical treatment is involves the use of phosphate binders, one alpha and increased frequency of dialysis. Surgery is indicated when medical treatment fails to control the Ca2+ PO4(2-) levels that activate renal osteodystrophy. High alkaline phosphatase and Ca2+ above 2.7 mmol/l are indications for surgery. Careful preoperative preparation and postoperative control minimise complications of haemorrhage, sepsis, tetany and cardiac arrhythmias. Long-term complications are hypoparathyroidism and recurrent hyperparathyroidism. Shortened dialysis periods may lead to increased parathyroid complications.