Parathyroid glands produce parathyroid hormone, which plays a role in the regulation of calcium levels in the blood. Dr. Denise Carneiro-Pla, an endocrine surgeon, talks about the role of the parathyroid gland and when surgery is offered based on signs and symptoms of an abnormal functioning parathyroid gland. Dr. Carneiro-Pla discusses the minimally invasive surgery in detail, the importance of monitoring the parathyroid hormone levels and the possible risks associated with the surgery.