Primary hyperparathyroidism during pregnancy: management by minimally invasive surgery based on ultrasound localization

Background Primary hyperparathyroidism in pregnancy has the potential to seriously impact the mother and foetus. Management may be difficult because the condition is usually diagnosed during pregnancy necessitating a rapid decision to proceed with surgery. Minimally invasive surgery is appealing due to shorter operative times and lower risk of complications. Method We present a consecutive series of eight women diagnosed with hyperparathyroidism during pregnancy. Results All eight women were treated successfully by parathyroidectomy during pregnancy with no maternal or foetal complications. Seven of these 8 women were treated with minimally invasive parathyroidectomy based on ultrasound localization. Conclusion Where ultrasound localization is performed by experienced endocrine surgeons, minimally invasive parathyroidectomy is a feasible and safe approach in the pregnant patient with primary hyperparathyroidism.