Ultrasound-guided methylene blue dye injection for parathyroid localization in the reoperative neck.

BACKGROUND

The goal of this study was to review a single institution's experience using intraoperative ultrasound-guided (ioUSG) methylene blue dye injection for the localization and removal of enlarged parathyroid glands in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism and a history of previous neck surgery.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of nine consecutive patients who underwent reoperative parathyroidectomy using ioUSG methylene blue dye injection.

RESULTS

All patients had successful resolution of their hyperparathyroidism, with at least a 50 % decrease in intraoperative parathyroid hormone level after resection. One patient had transient recurrent laryngeal nerve paresis. There were no permanent recurrent laryngeal nerve injuries or cases of permanent hypoparathyroidism.

CONCLUSIONS

Blue dye injection is a safe and effective method of localizing diseased parathyroid glands in the reoperative neck.