Laparoscopic adrenalectomy: current status with a review of Japanese literature

A decade has elapsed since laparoscopic adrenalectomy was first performed in 1992. Accumulated experiences of laparoscopic adrenalectomy have shown superior results to treat small functional benign tumors and make the indication expand to large tumors, pheochromocytomas and localized malignant tumors. Following the initially established transperitoneal approach, which includes anterior and lateral approaches, the retroperitoneal lateral flank and posterior lumber approaches have been performed. Each approach has advantages and disadvantages. The transperitoneal approach supplies a large operative field, many anatomical landmarks and easy handling. But it causes post-operative irritability and it is very difficult to perform after previous upper abdominal surgery. The retroperitoneal approach can be performed even after previous abdominal surgery and patients may be more comfortable after the operation. However, the narrow working space and the lack of anatomical landmarks may increase the rate of intra-operative complications and the rate of conversion to open surgery. Although there is no clear preference between transperitoneal and retroperitoneal approaches, the transperitoneal approach is commonly employed and the transperitoneal anterior approach seems to be the easiest one for right adrenal tumors and the transperitoneal lateral approach for left adrenal tumors. The shorter convalescence with laparoscopic adrenalectomy as compared with open adrenalectomy has been accepted and lower morbidity from laparoscopic adrenalectomy has been achieved. The operative time has been shortened to the level of open adrenalectomy. Less blood loss, less pain and better cosmesis are absolute advantages for the patients. Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is now the gold standard for the treatment of adrenal tumors.