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Minimally Invasive Adrenal Surgery
What is the traditional approach to adrenal surgery?
Using a traditional approach, the abnormal adrenal gland is removed through a large (6- to 12-inch) abdominal or flank incision, depending on the surgeon's preference. Excision of the adrenal gland through a flank incision often requires removal of the lowest rib.
What are the disadvantages of the traditional approach to parathyroid surgery?
Larger incisions are more painful, less cosmetically appealing and slower to heal. Postoperative pain, especially after rib removal, is quite significant and patients often require postoperative narcotic pain killers. Intestinal dysfunction (bowel paralysis leading to bloating, nausea and vomiting) is caused by narcotic use and can require a five- to seven-day hospital stay. Return to work is delayed as the pain from larger incisions can last three to four weeks. Many patients require more than a month recovery period before returning to their job.
What is minimally invasive adrenal surgery?
Minimally invasive or laparoscopic adrenalectomy is a method for removing abnormal adrenal glands using small (less than 2 centimeters) abdominal incisions. The procedure is performed with a small video camera (laparoscope) and long, thin instruments each introduced into the abdomen through separate small cuts. Viewing the video images on a large monitor, the surgeon separates the adrenal gland from surrounding tissue using an ultrasonic dissector and then removes the abnormal gland through one of the laparoscopic incisions.
What are the benefits of minimally invasive adrenal surgery?
Small incisions are less painful and are cosmetically superior. Less postoperative pain translates into a reduced need for narcotic pain medication and quicker return of bowel function. Most patients are discharged to go home within 24 to 48 hours after surgery and can usually return to regular activity in only one week.
What are the complications of minimally invasive adrenal surgery?
Minimally invasive and open surgeries share many of the same complications. These include bleeding and injury to other structures in the abdomen. Minimally invasive surgeries, however, have a lower risk of wound complications such as infection or hernias.
Is surgery safe if my adrenal tumor is hormone producing?
Careful, preoperative screening of the blood and urine can identify tumors that produce abnormally high levels of specific hormones. Recognition and preoperative treatment of excess hormone production helps allow for a safe and uneventful surgery. Lack of preoperative planning, by endocrinologists and surgeons with limited experience in adrenal surgery, is fraught with increased risks of bleeding, stroke, heart attack, and even death.
How do Memorial Center for Integrative Endocrine Surgery physicians optimize my surgical experience?
The experienced physicians at Memorial Center for Integrative Endocrine Surgery combine intensive preoperative screening and careful surgical planning with minimally invasive adrenalectomy techniques. Their goal is to provide a safe surgical experience for patients, with limited postoperative discomfort and early return to normal function.
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.
