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Adrenalectomy

Surgical removal of one or both adrenal glands, most commonly performed laparoscopically for functioning adenomas, pheochromocytoma, large incidentalomas, or adrenal malignancy.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Genel Cerrahi department. Book Appointment →

What is Adrenalectomy?

Adrenalectomy is the surgical removal of one (unilateral) or both (bilateral) adrenal glands, indicated for functioning adenomas (Conn, Cushing), pheochromocytoma, adrenal masses larger than 4 cm, suspicious nodules, and adrenocortical carcinoma.

Laparoscopic transabdominal or retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy is the standard for most benign indications, while open or robotic surgery is preferred for very large lesions or suspected malignancy.

Pheochromocytoma requires meticulous preoperative alpha and then beta blockade for at least 10 to 14 days, and bilateral adrenalectomy requires permanent glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid replacement.

Symptoms

Resistant hypertension and hypokalemia in primary aldosteronism
Cushingoid features such as central obesity, striae, and proximal muscle weakness
Episodic headache, palpitations, and sweating in pheochromocytoma
Incidentally detected adrenal mass on imaging
Mass effect symptoms in large adrenal tumors and weight loss in malignancy

Risk Factors

Genetic syndromes such as MEN2, Von Hippel-Lindau, neurofibromatosis type 1, and SDH mutations
Family history of pheochromocytoma or paraganglioma
Long-standing primary aldosteronism or Cushing syndrome
Adrenal incidentaloma with suspicious imaging features
History of malignancy with concern for adrenal metastasis

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Resistant hypertension with biochemically confirmed primary aldosteronism
  • Episodic catecholamine excess symptoms with elevated metanephrines
  • Adrenal mass larger than 4 cm or with suspicious imaging characteristics
  • Cortisol-secreting adenoma with metabolic complications

Treatment Methods

01
Multidisciplinary preoperative work-up including hormonal assessment, imaging, and anesthesia evaluation
02
Pheochromocytoma-specific preparation with alpha and beta blockade and volume expansion
03
Laparoscopic transabdominal or retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy for most benign tumors
04
Open or robotic adrenalectomy for large lesions or suspected adrenocortical carcinoma
05
Postoperative endocrine follow-up with hormone replacement when indicated and surveillance for recurrence

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Genel Cerrahi department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.