Hypocalcaemia: Post-surgical monitoring

What is hypocalcaemia?

Hypocalcaemia describes a condition where levels of calcium in the blood are lower than normal. This occasionally occurs following surgery to the thyroid gland.

The parathyroid glands play a major role in maintaining healthy calcium levels in the body. There are four parathyroid glands which are located behind the thyroid gland at the base of the neck. Hypocalcaemia can be caused by temporary or permanent damage to the parathyroid glands during surgery to the thyroid gland.

How is hypocalcaemia diagnosed after surgery?

After your child’s thyroid surgery, the health-care team will monitor your child’s calcium levels before they are sent home. If the calcium level is low, calcium and a form of vitamin D may be started.

Can hypocalcaemia develop days after surgery?

• numbness around the mouth
• tingling of the fingers or toes
• muscle cramps (called "tetany")
• fast or irregular heartbeat
• seizures

If your child experiences any of these symptoms after they go home, please contact your primary health-care provider or your endocrinologist right away as your child will require a blood test to measure their calcium level.

How is post-surgical hypocalcaemia treated?

If your child has low calcium levels following surgery, they will be given a prescription for calcium and/or vitamin D; as well as a bloodwork requisition to recheck your child’s blood calcium level. In some cases, treatment can be stopped weeks to months after surgery. In other cases, children may need lifelong replacement with these medications.