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. Author manuscript; available in PMC: 2015 Feb 4.
Published in final edited form as: JAMA Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2014 Nov;140(11):1006–1013. doi: 10.1001/jamaoto.2014.2435

Figure 2. Clinical Algorithm for Management of Patients at Low, Intermediate, and High Risk for Developing Postoperative Hypocalcemia After Total Thyroidectomy.

Figure 2

IPTH indicates intact parathyroid hormone; IV, intravenous.

SI conversion factor: To convert IPTH level to nanograms per liter, multiply by 1.0.

aPatient deemed suitable for same-day surgery by surgical team, with the absence of apparent perioperative complications and appropriate patient and/or family education and comprehension of signs and symptoms of hypocalcemia.

bIncrease in serum calcium level on 2 consecutive readings.

cDecrease in serum calcium level on a consecutive reading.

dCalcium 1200 mg in divided doses with food and vitamin D 400–800 IU daily as per recommended daily allowance.