What is the meaning of "parathyroidectomy"?

Parathyroidectomy means surgical removal of one or more parathyroid glands, from para meaning beside, thyroid referring to the thyroid gland near which the parathyroids are located, and ectomy meaning surgical removal. The four parathyroid glands regulate calcium levels by producing parathyroid hormone. Parathyroidectomy is performed for hyperparathyroidism, a condition where one or more glands produce excessive parathyroid hormone, causing elevated blood calcium levels that can lead to kidney stones, osteoporosis, abdominal pain, and neuropsychiatric symptoms. ---