Medical imaging of the parathyroid glands.

In patients with hyperparathyroidism, the detection and localization of parathyroid lesions can aid the surgeon preoperatively and prior to re-exploration if the initial surgery fails. Computed tomography, ultrasound, and radionuclide scintigraphy are currently most commonly used to evaluate the parathyroid glands in patients with hyperparathyroidism. This article will review the experience, techniques, and advantages of these respective imaging modalities in the evaluation of parathyroid lesions.