Relationship between onset of hypocalcemic symptoms and the recovery time from transient hypocalcemia after total thyroidectomy.

BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to examine whether the time required for recovery from transient hypoparathyroidism is correlated with the onset of hypocalcemic symptoms in patients with total thyroidectomy. METHODS Medical records of 54 patients were retrospectively reviewed. The correlation between the onset of hypocalcemic symptoms and the recovery time were compared for all patients divided into 3 groups based on first appearance of hypocalcemic symptoms; group 1, onset within 24 hours; group 2, onset at 24 to 48 hours; and group 3, onset >48 hours. RESULTS There was a negative correlation between onset and recovery times (p < .001). Serum parathyroid hormone levels 1 year after surgery were significantly lower in group 1 than in groups 2 or 3 (p < .001). CONCLUSION Recovery time can be predicted by time of onset of hypocalcemic symptoms and signs. Earlier onset leads to longer recovery times.