How Do You Spell PARATHYROIDECTOMY?

1. Parathyroidectomy is a medical procedure that involves the surgical removal of one or more of the parathyroid glands. These glands are small, pea-sized structures located behind the thyroid gland in the neck. The parathyroid glands are responsible for producing parathyroid hormone (PTH), which helps regulate the levels of calcium and phosphate in the body.

   When the parathyroid glands become overactive or produce too much PTH, it can lead to a condition known as hyperparathyroidism. Hyperparathyroidism can result in high levels of calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia), causing symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, kidney stones, and bone pain.

   Parathyroidectomy is typically recommended when other treatment options, such as medications, fail to effectively control hyperparathyroidism or when there are complications associated with the condition. The surgical procedure is performed under general anesthesia and may involve the removal of one or more parathyroid glands, depending on the extent of the problem.

   After a parathyroidectomy, the remaining parathyroid glands usually compensate for the removed glands, maintaining a normal level of PTH and calcium balance in the body. However, in some cases, the remaining glands may not function properly, leading to a condition called hypoparathyroidism, where there is a deficiency of PTH.

   Recovery from a parathyroidectomy is generally well-tolerated, and most patients experience relief from hyperparathyroidism symptoms. However, close monitoring of calcium levels and potential complications should be done following the procedure.

2. Excision of the parathyroid glands.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for PARATHYROIDECTOMY

The word "parathyroidectomy" is derived from several parts:

1. "Para-" comes from the Greek prefix "para", which means "beside" or "near". In medical terminology, "para-" often refers to something adjacent to or associated with.

2. "Thyr-" derives from the Greek word "thyreos", meaning shield. It indicates the relationship to the thyroid gland, as both the parathyroid and thyroid glands are located in the neck region.

3. "Ectomy" comes from the Greek word "ektomē", meaning "a cutting out" or "excision". It denotes a surgical removal or excision of a specified organ or gland.

Therefore, "parathyroidectomy" combines the meanings of these parts to refer to the surgical removal of the parathyroid glands, which are four small glands located behind the thyroid gland in the neck.

Plural form of PARATHYROIDECTOMY is PARATHYROIDECTOMIES