Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 30, 2026
11:07
Robotic-assisted Lateral Pancreaticojejunostomy for Chronic Pancreatitis
Published on: September 5, 2025
Retroperitoneal endoscopic versus conventional open adrenalectomy: a cost-effectiveness analysis
Jennifer M J Schreinemakers1, Sjoerd G Elias, Inne H M Borel Rinkes
1Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
Journal of Laparoendoscopic & Advanced Surgical Techniques. Part A
|September 23, 2008
Summary
Retroperitoneal endoscopic adrenalectomy offers a cost-effective approach compared to open surgery for adrenal tumors. This minimally invasive method significantly reduces recovery time and hospital stay, making it a favorable option for patients.
Area of Science:
- Minimally Invasive Surgery
- Surgical Oncology
- Health Economics
Background:
- Comparing retroperitoneal endoscopic adrenalectomy with conventional open adrenalectomy.
- Focus on patient groups with adrenal tumors smaller than 6 cm for comparability.
- Retrospective cost-effectiveness analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of retroperitoneal endoscopic adrenalectomy versus conventional open adrenalectomy.
- To analyze costs per day prevented by the endoscopic approach.
- To assess the impact on patient recovery and hospital stay.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 61 patients undergoing adrenalectomy between 1990 and 2004.
- Comparison of endoscopic versus open adrenalectomy for tumors < 6 cm.
- Short-term cost-effectiveness analysis and sensitivity analysis.
Main Results:
- Endoscopic adrenalectomy showed significantly shorter recovery time, postoperative stay, and faster resumption of oral intake.
- Operative time was longer in the endoscopic group, with 3 conversions to open surgery.
- Cost-effectiveness ratio was $15.41 per day of postoperative stay prevented; NNT to prevent 1 week of stay was 2.
Conclusions:
- Retroperitoneal endoscopic adrenalectomy is a cost-effective alternative to conventional open adrenalectomy.
- The benefits include reduced recovery time and shorter hospital stays.
- Endoscopic approach demonstrates favorable economic and clinical outcomes.
