[Development and results of adrenal autotransplantation (author's transl)]

56 cases of adrenalectomy and autotransplantation of human adrenal tissue have been reported in the literature since 1955. The most common indication was bilateral adrenal hyperplasia. A reduction in postoperative corticosteroid substitution and a return to almost physiological function on discontinuation of long-term substitution can be achieved. Recurrent disease is easily cured by partial excision of the transplanted tissue, situated usually in small muscle pockets, under local anaesthesia. The loss of adaptation to circadian rhythm and stress are adverse effects. Further development of this technique, which is still relatively rarely implemented, may make it more universally applicable for a wider indication of bilateral adrenalectomy, without loss of adrenal function.