Robotic-assisted parathyroidectomy through lateral cervical approach: first results in Belgium.

OBJECTIVE

A parathyroidectomy has been the treatment of choice for primary hyperparathyroidism. Especially the improved imaging techniques have led to minimally invasive techniques. Aim of this study was to evaluate our experience with robot-assisted parathyroidectomy through lateral cervical approach.

STUDY

DESIGN

Prospective clinical cohort.

METHODS

All consecutive patients who underwent a robotic-assisted parathyroidectomy for primary hyperparathyroidism since 2011 were enrolled in this study. Demographic data, biometrics, imaging data and surgery data were collected. Main outcomes were postoperative hypocalcemia, recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis and other postoperative complications.

RESULTS

Twenty-two patients were enrolled. When patients with conversion were excluded (39%) mean operating time was 69 min. In all patients a normal value of serum PTH-levels was achieved 4 h postoperatively. Mean value of serum calcium was 2.92mmol/L preoperative and 2.33mmol/L postoperative. There was no persistent hypocalcemia in any of our patients. 87% was discharged on the first postoperative day. Esthetic results were excellent.

CONCLUSIONS

Robotic-assisted parathyroidectomy through lateral cervical approach is a safe and feasible procedure in patients with posteriorly localized parathyroid adenomas. Preoperative imaging techniques are crucial to detect the exact location.