Vague preoperative localization and ectopic parathyroid often lead to the failure of operation in primary hyperparathyroidism. From Jun 1989 to March 1998, 11 cases of primary hyperparathyroidism had been treated surgically in the general surgery department of our hospital. Of them, 10 cases were operated successfully with the pathological diagnosis of adenoma and one parathyroid removed was reported normal. Preoperative localization, the knowledge of ectopic parathyroids, careful exploration during operation and the postoperative medical treatment are important for the perioperative management. Postoperative followup has emphasized to benefit the treatment in primary hyperparathyroidism.