Postoperative hypocalcemia after parathyroidectomy for renal hyperparathyroidism in the era of cinacalcet

Chronic kidney disease is often accompanied by hyperparathyroidism. Cinacalcet, a recent addition to the medical armamentarium, has proven efficacious. It is unclear whether cinacalcet use has any impact on the postoperative course in patients progressing to surgery. The records of 77 patients operated on for renal hyperparathyroidism were reviewed. Sixty-three were treated before the use of cinacalcet and 14 after. Ten subtotal and 67 total parathyroidectomies were performed. Mean nadir serum calcium was similar (6.6 ± 1.3 vs 6.2 ± 1.4 mg/dL). More patients taking cinacalcet preoperatively required intravenous calcium postoperatively (62%) than those treated before its use (41%), although this did not reach statistical significance (P = 0.09). In those undergoing total parathyroidectomy, cinacalcet use preoperatively (n = 11) led to a lower postoperative nadir calcium (5.8 ± 1.7 vs 6.6 ± 1.3 mg/dL) as compared with those who did not receive it (n = 56) (P = 0.05). This translated to a greater need for intravenous calcium infusion postoperatively (72 vs 38%) (P = 0.03). These data suggest a somewhat more aggressive postoperative course in patients who fail calcimimetic and require surgery. This may be useful to inform physicians and patients of expectations postoperatively, although it is not likely to alter management.