During an adrenalectomy, one or both of the adrenal glands are surgically removed.
Also Known As:
- Adrenal gland removal
- Adrenal surgery
Conditions Treated with Adrenalectomy:
Adrenalectomy is utilized in order to treat an enlarged adrenal gland, high blood pressure caused by dysfunctional adrenal glands and Cushing’s syndrome. It is also used to treat benign or malignant adrenal gland tumors, or an adrenal gland medullary tumor.
Non-surgical alternatives to adrenalectomy include chemotherapy, radiation therapy and arterial ablation. High blood pressure medications may be used for benign tumors. A laparoscopic adrenalectomy is a surgical alternative to the procedure.
Anesthesia with Adrenalectomy:
Adrenalectomy is performed under general anesthesia, which means that the patient is asleep and completely unaware during the procedure.
Potential Complications from Adrenalectomy:
Possible risks following adrenalectomy include infection, bleeding and a negative reaction to the anesthesia. It is also possible for there to be injury to other organs.
Prognosis after Adrenalectomy:
The prognosis for a positive end result following adrenalectomy is good.
Recovery from Adrenalectomy:
The total recovery time for adrenalectomy is three to six weeks.