Laparoscopic Adrenalectomy

What is Laparoscopic Adrenalectomy?

Adrenal glands create several hormones and chemicals, including estrogen, progesterone, cortisol, cortisone, steroids, adrenalin (epinephrine) and norepinephrine. If an adrenal tumor should arise, it may require removal. If it is large, suspected or confirmed as cancerous or if the gland is producing too much of any of the substances mentioned above, removal will be needed.

How is this procedure performed?

The surgeon will then insert a camera and small tools into the abdomen using three to four small incisions. Each incision ranges from ¼ to ½ an inch as opposed to an open surgery which will vary with a single incision 6 to 12 inches long.  Smaller incisions will diminish scarring and will aid in a lower risk of wound separation after surgery.

Because of the minimal size of adrenal glands, they typically must be removed entirely to dispose of the tumor. Using the laparoscopic method, the surgeon carefully removes the adrenal gland and associated tumor beginning with general anesthesia.