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Parathyroidectomy

Medical Author: James K. Bredenkamp, MD, FACS
Medical Editor: William C. Shiel, Jr, MD, FACP, FACR

What are the parathyroid glands?

The parathyroid glands are four, small, pea-shaped glands that are located in the neck on either side of the trachea (the main airway) and next to the thyroid gland. In most cases there are two glands on each side of the trachea, an inferior and a superior gland. Fewer than four or more than four glands may be present, and sometimes a gland(s) may be in an unusual location. The function of the parathyroid glands is to produce parathyroid hormone (PTH), a hormone that helps regulate calcium within the body.

Illustration of the Parathyroid Glands




Next: What is a parathyroidectomy? »

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