Management of calcium refilling post-parathyroidectomy in end-stage renal disease

Abstract

Post-parathyroidectomy hypocalcemia is a common complication, which can be prevented and treated with oral and i.v. calcium supplementation and/or active vitamin D metabolites. Daily follow-up of both serum calcium and phosphorus are mandatory to prevent this major post-operative complication. Based on the available evidence, we propose a protocol for the prevention and treatment of post-parathyroidectomy hypocalcemia, for use in clinical practice. This approach requires validation by a controlled clinical trial.