Active potassium supplementation might be mandatory during laparoscopic adrenalectomy for primary hyperaldosteronism

It is well recognized that monitoring of the serum potassium level during laparoscopic adrenalectomy for primary hyperaldosteronism is critical. Nevertheless, the guideline for prevention and management of hypokalemia during the operation has not been established to date. In this study, we investigated whether active potassium supplementation could prevent electrolyte imbalance during laparoscopic adrenalectomy for primary hyperaldosteronism.

From January 2007 to May 2011, 35 patients underwent transperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomy for primary hyperaldosteronism (Conn's syndrome). The hemodynamic and electrolyte changes during the operation were recorded serially. In first 10 patients (group A), potassium was replaced passively on demand. Based on this result, potassium was actively supplemented during the operation in the subsequent 25 patients (group B). The perioperative parameters, hemodynamic changes, and serum potassium levels were analyzed and compared between the two groups.

The patients' demographic data, initial blood pressure, and serum electrolyte levels were similar in both groups. The operative time was shorter in group B (P=0.035). The mean serum potassium level was decreased by 0.7 mmol/L during the first 30 minutes in group A. Based on this result, potassium was actively supplemented from the beginning of the operation in group B. The mean hypokalemic events were 4 ± 2 in group A. None of the patients in group B, however, experienced hypokalemia. The hemodynamic events (sudden increase of blood pressure) and mean blood pressure changes during the operation were similar in both groups.

Our results demonstrate that serum potassium levels are constantly decreasing during laparoscopic adrenalectomy for primary aldosteronism. Active supplementation of potassium during the operation might prevent a hypokalemic event.