An adrenalectomy is the removal of one, or both, adrenal
glands or partial removal of one or both adrenal glands. This is often performed
when an adrenal tumor or malignancy is present.
Surgery
Laparoscopic adrenalectomy uses a thin, telescope-like instrument called a laparoscope,
which is inserted through a small incision in the skin. The laparoscope is connected
to a tiny video camera which projects a view of the operative site through video monitors
located in the Operating Room. The abdomen is inflated with carbon dioxide gas to
allow the surgeon a better view of the operative area. Two or three additional
small incisions are made near the laparoscope through which the surgeon inserts
specialized surgical instruments to perform
the adrenalectomy.
Recovery
Following the procedure, the small incisions are closed with sutures and covered
with surgical tape. After a few months, they are barely visible. There will be three
or four tiny scars instead of one large abdominal scar. There will also be less
risk of hernia development and less chronic pain resulting from nerve damage. In
addition, the patient will have reduced postoperative pain, a shorter hospital stay,
and a shorter recovery time leading to a quicker return to daily activities, including
work. After the surgery, it is important to follow the doctors instructions. Although many people feel better in just a few days, the patient may need
to take it easy for two to four weeks.