Parathyroid hormone-based algorithm significantly reduces hypocalcemia after surgery

An algorithm utilizing intraoperative parathyroid hormone levels predicted symptomatic hypocalcemia in 90% of patients post-total thyroidectomy. Implementing routine calcium supplementation led to a drop in symptomatic hypocalcemia from 16% to 2.3% and a decrease in readmissions for related complications from 2.7% to 0.01%. While permanent hypoparathyroidism rates remained stable, the study demonstrated the algorithm’s effectiveness in minimizing postoperative complications, showcasing a significant advancement in postoperative care strategies.