Hungry bone syndrome following parathyroidectomy.

Hyperparathyroid-associated bone disease is known to affect quality of life and contribute to premature morbidity in the end stage renal disease (ESRD) population. Failure to adequately suppress parathyroid hormone secretion with medical management often warrants parathyroidectomy. Hypocalcemia frequently occurs after parathyroidectomy. A state of marked and prolonged hypocalcemia is termed "hungry bone syndrome." Biochemical and clinical criteria associated with development of hungry bone syndrome assist with identification of those at risk and facilitates postoperative management.