PRESS-PAR: Early Detection and Prevention of Symptomatic Post-Surgical Hypoparathyroidism After Thyroid Surgery

What this Trial Is About

This research investigates whether measuring parathyroid hormone earlier after thyroid surgery can reduce the number of patients who develop symptoms of hypoparathyroidism. The goal is to create a clear approach to manage this condition, improve patients' quality of life, reduce distress, and potentially shorten hospital stays. The study focuses on patients undergoing thyroidectomy or bilateral thyroid resection for any reason. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups. In the control group, parathyroid hormone and calcium levels are measured on the first day after surgery as part of routine care. In the intervention group, these measurements occur within the first 3 hours after surgery, plus again on the first postoperative day. Both groups receive vitamin D and calcium supplements if hormone levels fall below normal. The study includes baseline and postoperative quality-of-life assessments using standardized questionnaires and symptom scales. Throughout the study, patients undergo clinical visits on the day of surgery and the following two days, with an additional visit and lab testing between days 8 and 10 after discharge if needed. Six months after surgery, participants are contacted by phone to evaluate long-term symptoms, quality of life, and ongoing supplementation needs. Those with persistent hypoparathyroidism after six months are referred for specialized endocrine care outside the study. Researchers monitor hormone and calcium levels in certified laboratories and evaluate outcomes such as symptom scores, hospital stay length, therapy initiation, quality of life, and readmissions due to hypocalcemia.

PRESS -PAR: Early Detection and PREvention of Symptomatic postSurgical hypoPARathyroidism After Thyroid Surgery"