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Laparoscopic Adrenalectomy

Minimally invasive endocrine surgery in which the adrenal gland is removed laparoscopically.

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.

References (5)

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 Laparoscopic Adrenalectomy?

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is the laparoscopic removal of the adrenal (suprarenal) gland. First described in 1992, it has become the gold-standard surgical treatment for benign adrenal masses. It can be performed via either a transabdominal or a retroperitoneal approach.

The transabdominal approach is more widely used and is suitable for larger masses (>6 cm). The retroperitoneoscopic approach is advantageous for small masses (<5 cm) and in patients with prior abdominal surgery. Both techniques use 3-4 trocars.

Indications include functional adenomas (aldosteronoma, cortisol-secreting), pheochromocytoma (<6 cm), incidentaloma (>4 cm), adrenal metastasis, and suspected adrenal cancer. Compared with open surgery, it provides less pain, shorter hospital stay, faster recovery, and better cosmetic outcomes.

Symptoms

Functional adrenal adenoma (Conn syndrome, Cushing)
Pheochromocytoma (<6 cm, non-malignant)
Incidentaloma >4 cm
Symptomatic adrenal myelolipoma
Large adrenal cyst
Isolated adrenal metastasis
Unilateral pigmented nodular adrenal hyperplasia

Risk Factors

Large tumor size (>10 cm)
Hypertensive crisis from pheochromocytoma
Suspected adrenal cancer
Coagulopathy
Obesity and cardiopulmonary disease
Previous abdominal surgery
Inferior vena cava invasion

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • Resistant hypertension
  • Paroxysmal hypertension and sweating
  • Signs of Cushing syndrome
  • Hypokalemia with hypertension
  • Detection of an adrenal incidentaloma
  • Abnormal adrenal function tests

Treatment Methods

01
Preoperative hormonal evaluation (catecholamines, cortisol, aldosterone)
02
CT/MRI for mass size and characterization
03
Alpha-blockade preparation for pheochromocytoma
04
Laparoscopic transabdominal or retroperitoneal approach
05
Early ligation of the adrenal vein
06
Total adrenalectomy or cortical-sparing technique
07
Postoperative hormonal follow-up and replacement

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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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.