Work

Vitamin D Pretreatment to Prevent the Risk of Postoperative Hypocalcemic Complications After Parathyroidectomy in Primary Hyperparathyroidism: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis

Year: 2026

Type: review

Study designs: Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Parathyroidectomy is the treatment for primary hyperparathyroidism, yet postoperative hypocalcemia and hungry bone syndrome remain common. Vitamin D deficiency has been suggested as a modifiable risk factor, but evidence supporting preoperative supplementation is inconsistent. METHODS: Following PRISMA guidelines, we systematically searched five databases (up to January 2025) for studies evaluating vitamin D supplementation before parathyroidectomy in primary hyperparathyroidism. Data were extracted in duplicate, risk of bias assessed, and random-effects meta-analyses performed. RESULTS: Nine studies (three RCTs and six cohorts; n = 2750) were included. Vitamin D supplementation significantly reduced postoperative hypocalcemia (RR: 0.35, 95% CI: 0.18-0.66), symptomatic hypocalcemia (RR: 0.53, 95% CI: 0.29-1.00), and length of stay (MD: -0.51 days, 95% CI: -0.55 to -0.46). Trends favored supplementation for decreasing the risk of hungry bone syndrome and requiring calcium supplementation. CONCLUSIONS: Preoperative vitamin D appears safe and may reduce hypocalcemia-related complications after parathyroidectomy, though current evidence is of low quality.

Source: Head & Neck

DOI: 10.1002/hed.70205

Authors: Matthew Gynn, Helia Mansouri Dana, Oleksandr Butskiy

Institution: University of British Columbia

Language: English

Topic: Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,760