Adrenalectomy

Injury	Disease	Nutrition	Poison

Symptoms	Surgery	Test	Special Topic

Endocrine glands

Adrenalectomy

Definition:

Adrenalectomy involves removal of one or more adrenal glands. The adrenal glands are part of the endocrine system and are located just above the kidneys.

Alternative Names:

Adrenal gland removal; Removal of adrenal glands

How the test is performed:

This is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that is most often performed laparoscopically. A laparoscope is a device that allows the physician to see the surgical area with a small camera. Laparoscopic procedures use smaller incisions than traditional, open procedures.

For this procedure, you will be under general anesthesia (unconscious and pain-free). A small incision is made in the abdomen. The adrenal gland is removed through this opening. The tissue is then sent to a pathologist for examination.

This surgery is most often performed when there is an adrenal mass or tumor (such as pheochromocytoma).

How to prepare for the test:

You should not eat or drink anything, even water, for 8 hours before the procedure.

How the test will feel:

As with any minimally invasive surgery, there will be some discomfort after surgery.

Your health care provider may prescribe pain medications.
You may need stool softeners to avoid constipation.
Physical activities are encouraged to strengthen the abdominal wall muscles.

Complete recovery from the procedure may take 1 to 2 weeks.

Review Date: 1/23/2006
Reviewed By: Jeremy Goverman, MD, Department of Trauma and Critical Care, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Heathcare Network.

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