Adrenalectomy
- Adrenalectomy is a surgical procedure to remove either one or both of the adrenal glands from the body.
- The adrenal glands are located on top of the kidneys and are responsible for the release of several key hormones, such as adrenaline.
- The development of tumors in the adrenal glands is rare, and they are usually benign.
- However, these tumors can lead to the overproduction of hormones, which can cause several problems for the human body.
- In such cases, the removal of one or both of the glands can become a necessity.
- Let’s look at this surgery in detail:
What Do the Adrenal Glands Do?
The adrenal glands, located on top of each kidney, are part of the endocrine system. They are responsible for the development of several key hormones and their release into the bloodstream. The hormones they release are necessary for:
- Growth
- Development
- Sexual function
- Metabolism
It is responsible for producing sex hormones, cortisol, and adrenaline.
Symptoms of Adrenal Problems
Problems with the adrenal glands can negatively affect your life.They can have a drastic effect on daily activities and can also lead to other major complications. Excessive production of adrenal hormones due to the presence of tumors can cause:
- Fatigue
- Anxiety
- Excessive sweating
- Muscle weakness
- Frequent urination
- Heart palpitations
- Headaches
- Rapid heart rate
- Obesity
- Hypertension (which is high blood pressure)
- Cushing’s syndrome is another possible complication as it is caused by the overproduction of cortisol. Pheochromocytoma and primary hyperaldosteronism are two other conditions that can result from the overactivity of the adrenal glands.
How is it Done?
Adrenalectomy is typically performed in two different ways:
Open adrenalectomy
This is opted for when the tumor is too large or possibly cancerous. The surgeon simply makes a large incision in the abdomen and removes the glands through the opening.
Laparoscopic adrenalectomy
This method is far more common and is performed through some small incisions, making it a minimally invasive procedure. The surgery is aided with the addition of a laparoscope into the openings, which is a thin tube with an attached camera that helps the surgeon look inside the body.
- The surgery usually leaves you sore for a week or two.
- You will need to rest and take the medications prescribed by your doctor.
- Make sure to eat according to your regular diet and to be active.
- You only need one adrenal gland to live. If you have had both glands removed, certain medications can make up for the hormones your body will no longer produce.
Risks
Risks associated with adrenalectomy include:
- Hernia
- Damage to surrounding organs
- Bleeding and clots
- Infection
- Reaction to anesthesia
- Wound not healing properly