Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on parathyroid adenoma surgery: a single-center comparative experience.

OBJECTIVE

The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly disrupted healthcare delivery worldwide, leading to delays and uncertainties in the management of various endocrine disorders, including primary hyperparathyroidism. This study aimed to assess the impact of the pandemic on surgical outcomes by comparing the clinical, biochemical, and perioperative results of patients undergoing parathyroidectomy during and after the pandemic.

METHODS

A retrospective review was conducted of patients who underwent surgery for primary hyperparathyroidism between March 2020–June 2021 (COVID period) and July 2022–December 2023 (post-COVID period). Demographic characteristics, clinical presentation, biochemical markers, radiological findings, operative time, length of hospital stay, and postoperative complications were analyzed.

RESULTS

Operative times were significantly longer during the COVID period, whereas hospital stays were shorter. While overall biochemical control was achieved in the majority of patients, persistent postoperative hyperparathyroidism was significantly more frequent during the pandemic period.

CONCLUSION

Although the COVID-19 pandemic was associated with delayed presentation and increased perioperative challenges, parathyroidectomy remained an effective treatment option. However, higher rates of hypercalcemic crisis and persistent postoperative hyperparathyroidism highlight the clinical consequences of delayed surgical care during public health crises.