Bilateral simultaneous laparoscopic adrenalectomy for congenital adrenal hyperplasia: initial experience

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is an uncommon syndrome which represents a therapeutic challenge. We analyzed the role of bilateral simultaneous laparoscopic adrenalectomy in the management of CAH.

: Between October 2004 and September 2006, three female patients underwent bilateral simultaneous laparoscopic adrenalectomy for CAH. Data were retrospectively collected. Variables analyzed were persistence of CAH clinical signs, variations in 17 OH progesterone level and corticoid medication, operative time, median blood loss, postoperative pain, hospital stay, and body image perception after surgery.

Median age was 16.3 years. Complete regression of virilization signs, acne and hyperpigmentation was achieved in one case. The other two cases showed partial regression of signs. Levels of 17 OH progesterone reached normal parameters in all cases. Steroids doses were lowered and given only for replacement purposes. Mean operative time was 125, 65 and 60min for whole, right and left procedure, respectively. Median blood loss remained under 50ml in all cases and there were no complications. Median postoperative pain level was 5 according to visual analog pain scale. Median hospital stay was 4 days.

Bilateral simultaneous laparoscopic adrenalectomy shows all the advantages of minimally invasive surgery, and appears a viable alternative to medical management, which is not exempt from complications.