Laparoscopic adrenalectomy: The surgical technique and initial results of 13 cases

Abstract

Laparoscopic removal of the adrenal gland was performed in 13 patients with primary aldosteronism, Cushing's syndrome or a non-functioning adenoma. Six operations were performed on the right side while the other seven were performed on the left side. Four or five trocars were inserted through the abdominal wall and the adrenal gland was exposed transperito-neally. Eleven patients underwent successful removal of the gland laparo-scopically, while two patients required open surgery as a result of bleeding or severe adhesion due to previous abdominal surgery. The time required for the operation was 161 to 415 min with an average of 297 min and blood loss during the operation was less than 60 ml in eight of the 11 successful patients. Eight of the 11 patients could walk within 48 h post-operatively. Laparoscopic procedures are ideal for adrenalectomy and advancement of the surgical technique will result in shorter operation times and lower morbidity rates.

Key Words:

• laparoscopy
• adrenalectomy
• adrenal gland