Preprints.org
Beyond Surgical Follow-Up: Measuring the Long-Term Burden of Permanent Hypoparathyroidism After Thyroid Cancer
By Melcarne R, Carrillo Lizarazo JL, Biffoni M and 4 others.
Abstract
Background
Permanent postoperative hypoparathyroidism (p-HypoPT) is a major long-term complication of thyroid surgery; however, its incidence remains uncertain because reported rates are influenced by heterogeneous case mix and variable follow-up. We assessed the burden and determinants of p-HypoPT in patients undergoing surgery for differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) with long-term endocrine follow-up.
Methods
We retrospectively analysed prospectively collected data from 518 consecutive adults with DTC enrolled in a dedicated longitudinal endocrine follow-up programme between 2013 and 2022. p-HypoPT was operationally defined as the persistent requirement for oral calcium and/or active vitamin D supplementation at ≥12 months after surgery. Independent associations were assessed by means of multivariable logistic regression. Rates were also explored across the 2015 and 2025 American Thyroid Association (ATA) risk categories.
