Adrenalectomy
A drenalectomy is a surgical procedure in which one or both of the adrenal glands are removed. The adrenal glands are small, triangular organs on top of the kidneys that produce and release several necessary hormones and chemicals, including estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol, cortisone, steroids, adrenalin (epinephrine) and norepinephrine.
Reasons for an Adrenalectomy
Adrenalectomy is necessary if there is an adrenal tumor. The adrenal tumor should be removed if it is suspected or confirmed to be malignant, is large, or is causing the adrenal gland to produce too great a quantity of a hormone or other substance. Because the adrenal glands are so small, they usually must be entirely removed in order to remove a tumor. Tumors of the adrenal gland may be caused by diseases of the endocrine system, such as Conn's syndrome, or may result in the development of endocrine diseases, such as Cushing's syndrome.
The Adrenalectomy Procedure
Adrenalectomy is usually performed laparoscopically under general anesthesia. Because it is a minimally invasive procedure, postsurgical pain is reduced. Painkillers are administered as necessary. Laparoscopic adrenalectomy results in only small scars and an abbreviated recovery time. The patient usually spends only a single night in the hospital, and is able to return to normal activities in 10 days to 2 weeks.
Risks of Adrenalectomy
Although adrenalectomy is relatively safe, there are possible complications, including the following, with any surgical procedure:
- Postsurgical infection
- Blood clots
- Excessive bleeding
- Stroke
Evidence of infection (such as fever or cough, or an unusual pain in the calf or elsewhere), which can indicate the development of a blood clot, should be taken seriously, and a physician should be consulted as soon as possible. The patient will most likely require follow-up care for the condition necessitating the adrenalectomy.