Revision parathyroidectomy guided by intraoperative radionuclide imaging

Background: Technetium-99m sestamibi scintigraphy has become one of the most popular techniques for localization of the parathyroid gland after failure of primary neck exploration. Objective: To examine the efficacy of sestamibi with the handheld gamma ray detecting probe for the identification of parathyroid adenomas during revision parathyroidectomy. Methods: We reviewed six cases of probe-assisted neck exploration for parathyroid lesions following unsuccessful primary exploration. Results: In all cases the pathologic glands were successfully detected and removed. Conclusions: With careful planning, a gamma ray detecting probe can be used optimally 2-3 hours after technetium-99m sestamibi injection. The probe is efficient, easy and convenient to use.