What serious postoperative problem can occur after a parathyroidectomy?

Tetany is the correct answer because it directly relates to the surgical removal of parathyroid glands during a parathyroidectomy. The parathyroid glands are responsible for regulating calcium levels in the blood through the secretion of parathyroid hormone (PTH). If one or more of these glands are removed or damaged during surgery, the body can suddenly experience low calcium levels (hypocalcemia), which leads to tetany.

Tetany is characterized by muscle spasms, cramping, and other neurological symptoms due to increased neuromuscular excitability resulting from low serum calcium levels. This condition can be acute and may manifest shortly after surgery, requiring prompt management to prevent complications.

In contrast, while hypotension, respiratory distress, and infection can occur following any surgical procedure, they are not specific or more likely to be directly caused by a parathyroidectomy as tetany is. Thus, tetany stands out as a significant postoperative complication unique to this type of surgery.