Total parathyroidectomy and presternal subcutaneous implantation of parathyroid tissue for renal hyperparathyroidism.

When hyperparathyroidism recurs in patients previously treated by total parathyroidectomy and intramuscular parathyroid autotransplantation, excision of the graft is not always technically easy and it is often necessary to resect the portion of the muscle containing the implants. During November 1986, we began a program to test the feasibility of presternal subcutaneous autotransplantation of parathyroid tissue. We hoped this technique would make removal of the grafts simpler. Thirty-six patients with renal hyperparathyroidism (RHPT) received subcutaneous parathyroid implants. Persistent or recurrent hyperparathyroidism was observed in three patients during the follow-up period. The presence of active parathyroid tissue was demonstrated after some time in all the patients. The parathyroid implants were easily excised in three instances (one persistent RHPT and two recurrences). Microscopic examination of the resected specimens did not show any sign of malignant transformation. We conclude that presternal subcutaneous implantation of parathyroid tissue after total parathyroidectomy is a quick, safe and efficient surgical procedure in the treatment of RHPT.