The Mount Sinai Renal Hyperparathyroidism Program

The parathyroid glands are four small glands located behind the thyroid in our neck that are responsible for the level of calcium in our body.  These glands regulate the calcium level by secreting parathyroid hormone known as PTH. Hyperparathyroidism occurs when these glands malfunction and produce too much of this PTH hormone. As a result, the level of calcium, phosphorous and vitamin D in our body is affected, resulting in many problems with the cardiovascular system and the bones. 

Renal (kidney) hyperparathyroidism is a serious complication of chronic renal failure (kidney disease). This disease is divided into two main groups of patients: patients on dialysis (secondary hyperparathyroidism); and those who have received a kidney transplant (tertiary hyperparathyroidism).

Renal Hyperparathyroidism Treatment

The expert team at the Mount Sinai Renal Hyperparathyroidism Program, led by Program Director Aida Taye, MD, has over twenty years of experience in treating this condition. We use an interdisciplinary approach to your care based on your individual needs and medical history. Along with our colleagues in Nephrology, Transplantation, Endocrinology, and Endocrine Surgery we work to ensure that all options for treatment are discussed with you and assess whether you are a good candidate for surgery.

Surgical Care

Our team of specialized physicians and surgeons will ensure you are provided with the most innovative approaches to treatment. Renal hyperparathyroidism is often treated by parathyroidectomy surgery with implantation of parathyroid tissue into the forearm.  This is done to ensure that there is an adequate level of parathyroid hormone in the bloodstream after surgery. The surgical procedure takes about two hours with discharge a few days later after calcium levels are stabilized.