Southwestern Surgical CongressA “safe and effective” protocol for management of post-thyroidectomy hypocalcemia

BackgroundThis study evaluates the outcomes of a protocol to manage hypocalcemia after thyroidectomy (TTX).MethodsA review of prospectively collected data was performed in 130 patients who underwent TTX after the introduction of a specific protocol. These patients were compared with a control group of 195 patients who underwent TTX the year prior when routine calcium supplementation was utilized and no specific protocol was used.ResultsOf the 120 patients in whom the protocol was followed, 44 (37%) patients were classified as high risk, 15 (13%) intermediate risk, and 61 (51%) low risk. The protocol had a sensitivity of 85% and a negative predictive value of 92% for predicting subsequent hypocalcemia. With the implementation of the protocol, there was significant reduction in temporary hypocalcemia events (P = .008) and intravenous calcium drip (P = .49). Also, calcium supplementation was significantly lower in the protocol group (P ≤ .001).ConclusionsThis hypocalcemia protocol identifies patients who do not require additional supplementation and additional monitoring. At the same time, it identifies those who will benefit from supplementation after TTX.