Adrenal Surgery
What does the adrenal gland do?
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The adrenal glands are a triangular organs that sit on top of the kidneys.They have an outer layer (called the cortex) and an inner layer (called the medulla).
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The cortex layer produces hormones such as aldosterone and cortisol, which regulate a wide variety of bodily and cellular functions.
The medulla layer produces stress hormones responsible for increased respiration, elevated heart rate and help to regulate many other body functions.
The adrenal glands are a key nerve centre and receive a rich blood supply from the body to help feed the oxygen and nutrients necessary for the optimal function and the production of essential hormones.
Indications for Adrenal Surgery
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Overactive Adrenal Glands
Sometimes, adrenal glands may develop nodules that produce too much of certain hormones and may cause:
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Cushing syndrome – This results from excessive production of cortisol from the adrenal glands. The symptoms may include weight gain and fatty deposits in certain areas of the body, thinning arms and legs, purple stretch marks on the abdomen, facial hair, fatigue, muscle weakness, easily bruised skin, high blood pressure, diabetes, and other health issues.
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Hyperaldosteronism – This results from overproduction of aldosterone from one or both adrenal glands. This is characterised by increase in blood pressure, low potassium levels, muscle aches, weakness and spasms.
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Pheochromocytoma – This is a tumor that results in excess production of adrenaline or noradrenaline and may cause high blood pressure. Other symptoms include headaches, sweating, tremors, anxiety and rapid heartbeat. Some people are genetically predisposed to developing this type of tumor.
Adrenal Cancer or Suspicion of Adrenal Malignancy
Malignant or cancerous adrenal tumors can release excess of one or more hormones accompanied by abdominal pain, flank pain or a feeling of abdominal fullness.
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All adrenal conditions and surgery are usually treated in a team setting with medical endocrinologists
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Types of Adrenal Surgery
An adrenalectomy (adrenal gland removal surgery) via minimally invasive or traditional open surgery. The procedure will depend on your unique medical circumstances.
Minimally Invasive Surgery
Minimally invasive (laparoscopic) surgery to remove the adrenal gland is performed through several small incisions made through the patients back and side. The patient is asleep under general anaesthetic on their stomach. This type of surgery uses a tiny camera and surgical instruments that allows a view of the surgical site. The benefits of minimally invasive surgery may include smaller scars, less pain and a shorter recovery period than traditional open surgery.
Open surgery
Depending on your specific situation open surgery may be recommended. Open surgery is performed using traditional instruments and a larger incision to access the abdominal cavity to remove the adrenal gland or glands.
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Risks
Post-operative bleeding
This may occur round the surgical site
Risk is less than 1%
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Nerve Damage
Chances of damage are minimal
Risk is less than 1%
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Visceral Injury
Injury to internal organs
Risk is less than 1%
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Conversion to Open Operation
Complications from minimally invasive approach which may need conversion to open surgery approach
Risk is less than 5%