Parathyroid surgery: from inception to the modern day.

Parathyroid surgery has undergone great changes since its inception less than a century ago. It is still the only definitive option available to cure primary or tertiary hyperparathyroidism. This review details the development of parathyroid surgery, our understanding of hyperparathyroidism and the treatment options available. It also discusses the technological advances that have enabled parathyroid localization and prediction of surgical success.