Parathyroid Identification
The parathyroid glands are four tiny structures in the neck, each no bigger than a grain of rice, yet they play a vital role in controlling calcium levels in the body. For patients undergoing parathyroid surgery, accurate parathyroid identification is one of the most important steps in achieving safe and successful outcomes.
At Hampshire ENT Clinics, our expert parathyroid consultant — Mr Matt Ward — is highly experienced in advanced endocrine and ENT surgery. Their expertise ensures meticulous recognition of the parathyroid glands during every operation.
Why Parathyroid Identification Matters
The parathyroid glands produce parathyroid hormone (PTH), which regulates calcium in the blood and bones. To get an accurate cure in Parathryoid surgery, identification is key.
How Do Surgeons Identify the Parathyroid Glands?
Parathyroid glands are usually located behind the thyroid gland, but their exact position can vary. Techniques used at Hampshire ENT Clinics include:
Visual recognition — experienced surgeons identify glands by their unique colour and texture.
Fluorescence imaging — advanced technology (autofluorescence or indocyanine green) highlights parathyroid tissue in real time.
Intraoperative PTH monitoring — blood hormone levels confirm successful removal of abnormal parathyroid glands.
Frozen section analysis — rapid microscopic confirmation if tissue identity is uncertain.
Expert Parathyroid and Thyroid Surgeons in Hampshire
Our parathyroid team — Mr Matt Ward — are fellowship-trained ENT and thyroid specialists. They regularly perform complex thyroid and parathyroid surgery across Hampshire, using the latest techniques to improve safety, accuracy, and long-term patient outcomes.
Whether managing hyperparathyroidism, thyroid nodules, or complex revision surgery, we combine:
Specialist ENT training
Cutting-edge surgical technology
Patient-centred care
Final Thoughts
Parathyroid surgery requires precision, anatomical expertise, and modern tools. At Hampshire ENT Clinics, Mr Matt Ward prioritise safe parathyroid identification to protect calcium balance and ensure excellent outcomes for patients across Hampshire. Clinics available at Portsmouth, Winchester & Salisbury, and the wider Hampshire region.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Parathyroid Identification During Surgery
What are the parathyroid glands?
The parathyroid glands are four tiny glands in the neck, each around the size of a grain of rice. Despite their small size, they play a crucial role in regulating calcium levels in the blood and bones through the release of parathyroid hormone (PTH).
Why is parathyroid identification so important during surgery?
Accurate identification of the parathyroid glands is one of the most important steps in safe and effective parathyroid surgery. Correct identification allows the surgeon to:
Remove the abnormal (overactive) gland responsible for disease
Preserve healthy parathyroid tissue
Avoid complications such as low calcium levels (hypocalcaemia)
Precise identification is key to achieving a cure in hyperparathyroidism.
Are parathyroid glands always in the same place?
No. Although parathyroid glands are usually found behind the thyroid gland, their position can vary significantly between individuals. Some may be higher, lower, or in slightly unusual (ectopic) locations, which is why specialist experience is essential.
How do surgeons identify parathyroid glands during surgery?
At Hampshire ENT Clinics, several complementary techniques are used:
Visual recognition – experienced surgeons identify parathyroid glands by their characteristic colour, size, and texture
Fluorescence imaging – advanced technologies such as autofluorescence or indocyanine green (ICG) can highlight parathyroid tissue in real time
Intraoperative PTH monitoring – rapid blood tests confirm a fall in hormone levels, indicating successful removal of the abnormal gland
Frozen section analysis – rapid microscopic examination is used if tissue identity is uncertain
Using multiple methods together maximises accuracy and safety.
Who performs parathyroid surgery at Hampshire ENT Clinics?
Parathyroid surgery is led by Matt Ward, Consultant ENT and endocrine surgeon. He is fellowship-trained and highly experienced in complex thyroid and parathyroid surgery.
What conditions require parathyroid surgery?
Parathyroid surgery is most commonly performed for:
Primary hyperparathyroidism
Raised calcium levels causing symptoms such as fatigue, kidney stones, bone thinning, or cognitive “brain fog”
Selected cases of secondary or recurrent hyperparathyroidism
How does intraoperative PTH monitoring improve outcomes?
Intraoperative PTH monitoring allows surgeons to measure hormone levels during the operation. A rapid drop in PTH confirms that the overactive gland has been successfully removed, increasing cure rates and reducing the need for repeat surgery.
Does expert identification reduce complications?
Yes. Careful parathyroid identification helps protect normal glands and reduces the risk of:
Temporary or permanent low calcium levels
Voice changes related to nerve injury
Incomplete treatment requiring further surgery
Where is parathyroid surgery offered?
Parathyroid assessment and surgery are available through Hampshire ENT Clinics, with treatment provided across Portsmouth, Winchester, Salisbury, and the wider Hampshire region.
What should patients take away from this?
Parathyroid surgery requires precision, detailed anatomical knowledge, and modern technology. At Hampshire ENT Clinics, specialist expertise and advanced identification techniques are used to ensure safe surgery, accurate cure, and excellent long-term outcomes for patients across Hampshire.