What are the danger signs to look for after parathyroid removal surgery?

Low calcium: Temporary or permanent hypocalcemia (low calcium) is one of the possible complications following parathyroid surgery. Falling calcium levels following parathyroid surgery can cause tingling around the mouth or digits. Continued drop can lead to spasms in the hands or feet, abdominal cramps, mental status changes, EKG changes and tetanic contractions.

Tingling on fingers: Most parathyroid surgeries are performed to removed a parathyroid adenoma, a benign tumor affecting one of the four parathyroid glands. The serum calcium is usually elevated preoperatively and returns to normal quickly after surgery. Sometimes it falls below the normal level causing temporary tingling in the hands and around lips. Oral calcium usually controls these symptoms.

Danger signs: The common danger signs after Parathyroidectomy include numbness and muscle cramps from low calcium. That can happen from pre existing bad bone disease or bilateral neck exploration. A blood clot in the neck which compresses the windpipe. And problems breathing/hoarseness if there is vocal nerve damage.