Topic: Calcium Management After Thyroidectomy

Objective(s):

• Identify risk factors for postoperative hypocalcemia and stratify patients based on surgical and biochemical predictors (e.g., extent of surgery, early postoperative PTH levels).
• Interpret early postoperative calcium and PTH levels to guide calcium and vitamin D supplementation strategies.
• Compare prophylactic versus selective calcium supplementation protocols following thyroidectomy.
• Develop evidence-based management plans for outpatient calcium and calcitriol dosing, tapering strategies, and monitoring.
• Recognize and manage symptomatic hypocalcemia and indications for urgent intervention.
• Implement strategies to reduce readmissions and improve patient education after thyroid surgery.

Speaker: Dr. Kevin Carlson, MD