Adrenal Gland

The adrenal glands are part of the endocrine system and are located just above the kidneys.The adrenal gland is removed when there is known cancer or a growth (mass) that might be cancer. Adrenalectomy is an operation in which one or both adrenal glands are removed.

Sometimes a mass in the adrenal gland is removed because it releases a hormone that can cause harmful side effects.

One of the most common tumors is a pheochromocytoma, which can cause very high blood pressure
Other disorders include Cushing syndrome, Conn syndrome, and an adrenal mass of unknown cause

Adrenalectomy can be performed in two ways.

In the “open” surgery, the surgeon makes one large surgical cut to remove the gland.
With the robotic / laparoscopic technique, several small cuts are made.

These minimally invasive robotic / laparoscopic techniques have translated into a significant benefit to patients including

reduced blood loss and transfusions,
reduced pain,
shorter hospital stays,
improved cosmesis,
and a faster recovery as compared to open surgery.

While open surgery requires either a large abdominal or flank incision, minimally invasive approaches involve 3-4 keyhole incisions in the abdomen. Most patients with adrenal tumors who are candidates for open surgery are also excellent candidates for a robotic / laparoscopic approach. These minimally invasive approaches have become the standard of care for most adrenal tumors.

Patients with very large tumors or tumors invading surrounding structures e.g. vena cava, kidney, liver, bowel may be best served by an open approach due to the extent and need for adjacent organ resection.

CT Scan showing bilateral adrenal tumor

Adrenelectomy can also be performed using da vinci Robot. Please visit www.roboticsurgeryinindia .com for further information.

Note: Dr. K. Ramesh is first person to do Robotic partial adrenelectomy in Chennai at Apollo Hospitals.

Medical conditions such as severe lung and heart disease may not be able to tolerate a robotic / laparoscopic approach.