Non-Surgical Parathyroid Ablation in Antalya, Turkey: A Safe and Comfortable Solution for High PTH
Dear international patients, I am Prof. Dr. Aykut Recep Aktaş, an Interventional Radiology Specialist. My field focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases using minimally invasive methods. I want to specifically clarify that my specialisation is Interventional Radiology, and I am certainly not a Urologist. Today, I would like to introduce you to a groundbreaking treatment approach we apply in Turkey for health issues caused by high parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels: non-surgical parathyroid ablation.
What are High Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) and Hyperparathyroidism?
Located in your neck, behind the thyroid gland, are four small parathyroid glands that produce parathyroid hormone (PTH), which regulates calcium and phosphorus levels in your body. If one or more of these glands become overactive, PTH levels in your bloodstream rise. This condition is called hyperparathyroidism. High PTH can lead to increased calcium levels in the blood (hypercalcemia), causing serious health problems such as fatigue, bone pain, kidney stones, osteoporosis, depression, and even heart issues.
The Traditional Approach: Surgical Operation
For many years, the definitive treatment for hyperparathyroidism was typically surgical operation. In this procedure, the overactive parathyroid gland or glands would be surgically removed. However, this is an invasive method requiring general anaesthesia, leaving a scar on the neck, carrying the potential risk of vocal cord damage, and necessitating a recovery period. Surgical risks can be heightened, especially for elderly patients or those with additional health conditions.
The Groundbreaking Solution: Non-Surgical Parathyroid Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
Thanks to modern Interventional Radiology techniques, we can now treat overactive parathyroid glands causing high PTH levels without the need for surgery, using a minimally invasive method: Non-Surgical Parathyroid Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA). This method aims to heat and deactivate the target parathyroid gland using radiofrequency energy delivered via a specialised needle.
Advantages of RFA for International Patients
- Minimally Invasive: No incisions, no stitches, no neck scar.
- Local Anaesthesia: Performed by numbing only the application area, avoiding the risks of general anaesthesia. This minimises post-procedure side effects such as nausea and vomiting.
- Rapid Recovery: Patients can typically be discharged on the same day and quickly return to their daily activities. Post-procedure pain is minimal.
- High Success Rates: When performed by experienced Interventional Radiologists, high success rates are achieved in normalising PTH levels and alleviating symptoms.
- Low Risk: Carries a lower risk of complications compared to surgery.
How is the Non-Surgical Parathyroid Ablation Procedure Performed in Turkey?
The RFA procedure we perform in specialist clinics in Turkey for our international patients is highly comfortable. First, the overactive parathyroid gland or glands are precisely identified using high-resolution ultrasonography. Then, under local anaesthesia and guided by ultrasound, a very fine needle is advanced to the targeted parathyroid gland. Radiofrequency energy is used to heat the gland, causing it to lose its function. The entire procedure typically lasts 30-60 minutes.
After the procedure, patients are discharged following a short observation period. Most patients can fully return to their normal lives within a few days. This process makes travel and accommodation plans more flexible for our international patients.
Who is a Suitable Candidate for Non-Surgical Ablation?
Non-Surgical Parathyroid RFA is an ideal option, particularly for patients who have high surgical risks, cannot undergo general anaesthesia, wish to avoid surgical scars, or have previously undergone unsuccessful surgery but have a remaining parathyroid gland detected. Each patient's condition is individually assessed, and the most suitable treatment plan is determined.
The Importance of Choosing an Expert Clinic in Turkey
Expertise and experience in Interventional Radiology are critically important for the success of non-surgical parathyroid ablation. Turkey offers world-class services to international patients, boasting modern healthcare infrastructure, clinics equipped with advanced technology, and competent Interventional Radiology specialists. In expert clinics across Turkey, such delicate procedures are meticulously performed by highly experienced physicians, accompanied by state-of-the-art imaging methods.
Conclusion: A Safe, Effective, and Comfortable Future
You don't have to live with high PTH levels. Non-surgical parathyroid ablation offered in Turkey is a far less invasive, more comfortable, and effective treatment option compared to surgery. With minimal recovery time and high success rates, we offer our international patients a safe path to regaining their health.
For detailed information, please contact Prof. Dr. Aykut Recep Aktaş.