The optimal surgery for patients with renal hyperparathyroidism has been controversial, as either subtotal parathyroidectomy (subtotal PTX) or total parathyroidectomy with auto-transplantation (total PTX-AT) may be employed.

Adult patients having subtotal PTX or total PTX-AT for secondary hyperparathyroidism were identified from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program, 2005–2013.

Of 1130 patients, the majority (n = 765, 68%) underwent subtotal PTX. Total PTX-AT was associated with longer operative time (median 150 vs. 120 min, p < 0.001). Rates of complications, reoperation, readmission, and 30-day mortality were not significantly different. After adjustment, the odds of having a complication [OR 0.97, p = 0.88] and being readmitted within 30 days [OR 0.86 p = 0.62] were similar between the two procedures. Total PTX-AT was associated with prolonged hospital stay [Adjusted mean 5.0 vs. 4.1 days; (RR) 1.22, p < 0.001] compared to subtotal PTX.

Subtotal PTX and total PTX-AT have similar rates of complications, readmission, and 30-day mortality, but subtotal PTX is less likely to have extended hospital stay. These findings have important cost implications for patients, payers, and hospitals.