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Adrenal Tumors
The adrenal glands are two small organs located in the back of the abdomen, right above the kidneys. They are very important in controlling the body's physiologic responses to stress, maintaining blood pressure and producing important hormones. With technically sophisticated CT and MRI scans, adrenal nodules (growths or lumps) can be found in approximately 1 in 10 adults. Most adrenal nodules are completely benign and need no therapy. Adrenal cancers are relatively rare, but can be deadly.
Adrenal Gland Evaluation
The most common reason to have the adrenal gland removed is excess hormone production caused by a tumor located within the adrenal gland. These tumors are most often small and noncancerous, but they can have significant effects on body chemistry through the overproduction of adrenal hormones. (See Hormonally Active Adrenal Tumors)
Adrenal cancers are usually larger when they are detected (greater than 1.25 inches in size). If an adrenal nodule is suspicious for cancer or hormone over-production, then surgery for removal of the adrenal gland (adrenalectomy) may be recommended.
Endocrinologists are the ideal medical specialists for evaluation of adrenal nodules and adrenal hormone levels. Evaluation of adrenal nodules requires close coordination of many specialty services including a hormone laboratory, radiology specialists and an experienced endocrine surgeon.
R. Mack Harrell, MD, of the Memorial Center for Integrative Endocrine Surgery, has coordinated adrenal evaluation and treatment in Florida since 1986.
Adrenal Surgery
Historically, adrenal surgery required a large painful abdominal or back incision and a hospital stay of seven to 10 days. Patients took two to four weeks to recover and return to work. Today, minimally invasive laparoscopic adrenal surgery is performed through three or four tiny incisions (each less than 1 inch in length). Patients usually spend less than 48 hours in the hospital and are back to work in seven to 10 days.
David Bimston, MD, of the Memorial Center for Integrative Endocrine Surgery, has a long and distinguished track record of performing successful minimally invasive adrenal surgery.
Is Your Doctor a Memorial Doctor?
To find a physician who is committed to South Florida healthcare services, call Memorial Physician Referral Service toll-free at 800-944-DOCS. We're available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
