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Retroperitoneal endoscopic adrenalectomy is safe and effective
J M J Schreinemakers1, G J Kiela, G D Valk
1Department of Surgery, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
The British Journal of Surgery
|July 29, 2010
Summary
Retroperitoneal endoscopic adrenalectomy (REA) is a safe and effective surgical option for adrenal tumors up to 6 cm. This minimally invasive procedure demonstrated a low complication rate in a university center review.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Surgical Oncology
- Minimally Invasive Surgery
Background:
- Retroperitoneal endoscopic adrenalectomy (REA) is the preferred surgical approach for adrenal tumors at this institution.
- This study reviews the institutional experience with REA from 1997 to 2008.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of retroperitoneal endoscopic adrenalectomy (REA).
- To assess the outcomes of REA for various adrenal gland tumors.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected database of 112 REAs performed between 1997 and 2008.
- Data included patient demographics, surgical details, complications, and hospital stay.
Main Results:
- 112 REAs were successfully performed in 105 patients, including seven bilateral procedures.
- Common diagnoses included phaeochromocytoma (39), Cushing's disease (21), and Conn's disease (20).
- Median operating time was 100 minutes, median blood loss was 5 ml, and median tumor size was 3.1 cm, with only two conversions to open surgery and a 3-day median hospital stay.
Conclusions:
- Retroperitoneal endoscopic adrenalectomy (REA) is a safe and effective surgical technique for adrenal gland tumors up to 6 cm.
- The procedure is associated with a minimal complication rate and a demonstrable learning curve leading to decreased operating times.
