Laparoscopic Adrenalectomy

The adrenals are endocrine glands located on top of the kidneys. Adrenals manufacture and secrete important hormones (i.e.: cortisol, aldosterone, epinephrine), which are fundamental to several body functions. Sometimes there are tumors growing in the adrenal glands; usually these tumors are benign (not cancerous), but secrete an abnormally high output of hormones that may have detrimental effects for the patient. In such cases and also when there are tumors of 4cm or larger, then this adrenal gland should be surgically removed.

Traditionally, the resection of an adrenal gland was performed through a large flank incision because this small gland is located at the most posterior and superior part of the abdomen behind the liver, or the spleen and the stomach. This was very painful for the patients and they required long recuperation time. Nowadays, adrenalectomy can be performed laparoscopically, or using the robotic technology. Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is associated with just one day hospitalization, no or minimal postoperative discomfort and very short recuperation.