This procedure is performed for both Primary and Secondary Hyperparathyroidsim
In Primary Hyperparathyroidism when the scans fail to show the particular abnormal gland, this operation is performed. Through a small incision in a neck skin crease all 4 glands will be looked at and the abnormal gland/s removed. This operation has a high success rate.
In Secondary hyperparathyroidism ( usually associated with renal disease) either a subtotal or total parathyroidectomy is performed (removal of almost all of the parathyroid tissue) leaving either a small amount of parathyroid gland either in the neck or re-implanting it in the forearm.