Our Surgeon Dr. Gordon

Two of the most vexing patient problems that Head and Neck Surgeons confront are the uncertainty in the diagnosis of hyperparathyroidism and then the failure of localization of a parathyroid adenoma prior to bringing the patient to surgery. In fact, I have encountered these exact problems with one of my own family members.

These related problems stem from the same issues. First, hyperparathyroidism is a dynamic problem with changing lab values. Because the diagnosis is made by these constantly changing lab values for a given individual, the values may not fit a clear and consistent pattern. Second, the glands are very small and, as such, they are difficult to locate with imaging — even in experienced hands. Third, this is not a common condition; well-trained Endocrinologists, Head and Neck Surgeons, and Radiologists may not have the volume of experience to feel comfortable making the diagnosis of hyperparathyroidism and then recommending the next logical step, which is surgery.

These three factors have led to many patients being left in limbo, as they are uncertain whether they have hyperparathyroidism and are uncertain as how to proceed. Many patients have been told that they likely have the condition, but their treating physician does not yet feel comfortable recommending surgery due to inadequate test results. Many are told, ‘let’s wait and see…’ for months, or even years, on end. In over 20+ years as a Head and Neck Surgeon, I have seen the frustration in patients suffering from hyperparathyroidism, but not receiving the help or resolution they seek.

I founded Advanced Parathyroid Surgery of New York with this frustration in mind. I set out to differentiate the care we provide by setting up a systems-based approach to the diagnosis and treatment of hyperparathyroidism. In other words, the communication among treating providers including Surgeon, Radiologist, Pathologist, Laboratory Technician, and Radiology Technician is highly coordinated and consistent. Because of the volume of patients we see, our experience is the key factor in enabling us to provide our patients with an action plan to avoid leaving them in limbo. The care provided at Advanced Parathyroid Surgery of New York is the high volume, highly coordinated care that I would want for my family members and my patients. We appreciate that you have entrusted us with your care.

Dr. Lawrence Gordon has been practicing Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery in Orange County, NY for over 20 years. He is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons. He obtained his undergraduate degree in Biophysics at the University of Pennsylvania and his Medical Degree at Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons. In addition to practicing Otolaryngology, he is a medical software entrepreneur and the founder of WRS Health, a web-based Electronic Health Record and Practice Management System platform.