Laparoscopic adrenalectomy

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy shows how minimally invasive surgery, because of its favorable effects on morbidity and costs, has replaced the conventional open procedure. Laparoscopic adrenalectomy now is considered standard care for the excision of most benign adrenal tumors. The most common indications for laparoscopic adrenalectomy include aldosterone-producing adenomas, pheochromocytoma, and glucocorticoid adenomas. Each of these tumors is unique, requiring a thorough understanding of the medical and surgical implications for the delivery of high-quality care. Laparoscopic adrenalectomy offers two approaches: transperitoneal and retroperitoneal. The authors prefer the transperitoneal approach because of its increased exposure and ability to visualize other intraperitoneal contents. A review of the current literature on laparoscopic adrenalectomy supports the safety, efficacy, and improved outcomes for this procedure.