Evaluating liver function test alterations in laparoscopic right adrenalectomy with different retractors

Laparoscopic techniques have emerged as the preferred approach over traditional open surgery for the treatment of adrenal gland disorders. Right laparoscopic adrenalectomy (RLA) typically requires liver retraction for exposure, and various retractors can be used for this purpose. While studies have been conducted on liver injury during liver retraction in upper abdominal surgeries, no research has specifically addressed liver damage during laparoscopic adrenalectomy (LA). This study aims to evaluate the impact of two retractors used for liver retraction during RLA on liver function test results (LFTs) and their clinical significance.

This retrospective study included 87 LA patients who underwent surgery for adrenal gland pathology at our institution between 01/01/2010 and 04/30/2024. The patients were divided into two groups: RLA (n=42) and left LA (LLA) (n=45). The RLA patients were further categorized into two subgroups based on the retractor used: 5-blade retractor (FB) (n=22) and full ring retractor (GF) (n=20). Clinicopathological findings, operative outcomes, and laboratory test results were compared across groups.

Postoperative levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase were significantly higher in the RLA groups (FB and GF) compared to the LLA group (p<0.001, p<0.001, p=0.001, respectively). Although no statistically significant difference was observed between groups, the median length of stay (LOS) was slightly shorter in the FB group (2 (2-3), p=0.058). There were no significant differences between FB and GF groups in terms of operation time, LFTs, complications, or mortality. Correlation analysis showed a statistically significant positive correlation between postoperative AST levels and lesion size (rho=0.31, p=0.045). Additionally, patients with functional adrenal pathologies had a significantly longer hospital stay compared to those with nonfunctional pathologies (2 (2-2.25) vs. 3 (2-3.5), p<0.001).

In RLA procedures, the LFT values were higher compared to LLA procedures. The effects of FB and GF retractors on surgical outcomes and LFT values were similar, indicating both retractors can be safely used during RLA surgeries. While no clinical impact was detected, caution is advised regarding potential liver injury during RLA procedures.