Background: The aim of this study was to compare the clinical status, surgical course, and outcomes of patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT), over the age of 70, with younger patients.
Methods: Between 1996 and 2006, 951 patients underwent parathyroidectomies for PHPT, of whom 190 were over the age of 70. Patient data were collected from chart reviews and a computerized database.
Results: Fewer older patients were asymptomatic at presentation. No between-group differences in serum calcium were seen; however, parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels were higher in the older group. Hospitalization time was longer for the elderly. Duration of surgery, surgical success rates, and postoperative complications were similar between the 2 groups.
Conclusion: Surgical treatment of PHPT has both physiological benefits and helps to preserve quality of life. Our findings suggest that there is no practical difference in perioperative management and surgical outcomes for older patients. Surgeons should consider parathyroidectomy in PHPT patients regardless of age.
(c) 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2008.