Dealing with the Parathyroid Function After Total Thyroidectomies, Tips and Tricks for Best Results

Sunday, October 18, 2026

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM PT

Location: West Exhibit Hall A, Learning Zone 5

Moderator(s)

Erivelto M. Volpi, MD, PhD

Oncology Center
Oswaldo Cruz German Hospital
Santo Andre, United States

Panelist(s)

Gregory W. Randolph, MD

Claire and John Bertucci Endowed Chair in Thyroid Surgical Oncology
Harvard Medical School
Westwood, Massachusetts, United States
LR

Leonardo G. Rangel, MD

Head of Division
UERJ
Rio De Janerio, Rio de Janeiro, United States
Higino Steck, MD PhD

Professor of Head and Neck Sector Otolaryngology Division at State University of Campinas (UNICAMP)
UNICAMP
Campinas, Sao Paulo, Brazil

Disclosure(s):

Erivelto M. Volpi, MD, PhD:

faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.

This session focuses on preserving the parathyroid function during total thyroidectomy by combining a "vessel-first" dissection approach with infrared fluorescence imaging (NIRF). It emphasizes real-time detection and safeguarding of glandular blood flow. Using videos and clinical cases, we will explore common pitfalls causing hypocalcemia, criteria for autotransplantation, and postoperative care protocols. The aim is to provide surgeons with objective tools to lower complications and enhance patients' functional recovery in thyroid surgery.

Learning Objectives:

Implement Intraoperative Imaging: Participants will be able to integrate near-infrared fluorescence (NIRF) and autofluorescence techniques into their surgical workflow to objectively identify parathyroid glands and assess real-time tissue perfusion.
Refine Dissection Techniques: Attendees will be able to apply "vessel-first" dissection maneuvers specifically designed to preserve the delicate micro-vascularization of the parathyroid glands, reducing the incidence of transient postoperative hypocalcemia.
Standardize Salvage Protocols: Surgeons will be able to use evidence-based criteria to determine the need for parathyroid autotransplantation and manage postoperative calcium replacement protocols to optimize functional recovery.