Sequential changes in bone density before and after parathyroidectomy in primary hyperparathyroidism.

Bone density (bone mineral content/bone width) was determined by iodine-125 (125I)-photon absorptiometry in the distal third of the radius before and after successful parathyroidectomy in 37 patients with primary hyperparathyroidism. Bone density progressively declined during the two years immediately preceding surgery. It rose by 6.4% during the first year following surgery but remained stable thereafter. The results suggest that photon absorptiometry analysis of bone density may disclose continuing bone loss before surgery and may show a partial recovery of bone loss that may ensue after successful parathyroidectomy.