Adrenal Tumours
Adrenal tumours arise in the adrenal glands, small hormone-producing glands located above each kidney.
These tumours may be benign or malignant. They sometimes produce excess hormones, including cortisol, aldosterone, and catecholamines (adrenaline and noradrenalin) that can lead to conditions such as Cushing’s syndrome, Conn’s syndrome, or pheochromocytoma, respectively. Clinical features of these conditions include high blood pressure, weight gain, diabetes, or severe headaches. Diagnosis involves blood and urine tests, CT or MRI scans, and sometimes specialized hormonal testing. Treatment depends on tumour size, function, and malignancy potential.
Open and Laparoscopic Adrenalectomy
For adrenal tumours requiring removal, adrenalectomy is the standard surgical treatment. Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is the preferred approach for most benign and small-to-medium-sized tumours, offering smaller incisions, less pain, faster recovery, and a shorter hospital stay. In cases of large, invasive, or suspected malignant tumours, an open adrenalectomy may be necessary to ensure complete tumour removal and prevent tumour spread. Open surgery allows for better access and control, particularly for tumours invading surrounding structures or in patients with prior abdominal surgeries. The choice between laparoscopic and open surgery depends on tumour characteristics and patient factors.
Benefits
Laparoscopic approach offers smaller incisions, less pain, faster recovery, and shorter hospital stay.
Open surgery provides better access and control, particularly for tumors invading surrounding structures or patients with prior abdominal surgeries.
For adrenal tumours requiring removal, adrenalectomy is the standard surgical treatment. Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is the preferred approach for most benign and small-to-medium-sized tumours, offering smaller incisions, less pain, faster recovery, and a shorter hospital stay. In cases of large, invasive, or suspected malignant tumours, an open adrenalectomy may be necessary to ensure complete tumour removal and prevent tumour spread. Open surgery allows for better access and control, particularly for tumours invading surrounding structures or in patients with prior abdominal surgeries. The choice between laparoscopic and open surgery depends on tumour characteristics and patient factors.
Benefits
Laparoscopic approach offers smaller incisions, less pain, faster recovery, and shorter hospital stay.
Open surgery provides better access and control, particularly for tumors invading surrounding structures or patients with prior abdominal surgeries.
Why Urologists Are Well-Suited for Adrenal Surgery
Urologists are highly experienced in retroperitoneal and minimally invasive surgery, making them well-suited to perform adrenalectomy. Since the adrenal glands are located above the kidneys, urologists’ expertise in kidney and retroperitoneal procedures provides a clear advantage in safely accessing and removing adrenal tumours. Additionally, urologists are skilled in managing large abdominal tumours, vascular involvement, and complex reconstructive procedures, ensuring optimal surgical outcomes. Collaboration with endocrinologists and oncologists is essential to provide comprehensive care for adrenal tumour patients.