General information:
There are 2 adrenal glands in the body (left and right), they are positioned on the top of the kidneys at the back of the abdominal cavity. Their function is the production of a variety of hormones which influence a wide range of functions in the body, this includes fluid regulation, metabolism, blood pressure maintenance as well as immune activities.
Reasons you may require surgery
Overactive production of hormones
- Persistent hypertension resistant to medical therapy
- Weight gain in the face and shoulders
- Fluid retention and bloating
- Diabetes
- Episodic periods of anxiety, headache or unexplained blackouts
Suspicion of cancer:
- Lesions >4cm
- Enlarging lesion on progressive imaging
- Abnormal or suspicious imaging features (usually on CT)
Treatment
Currently the method of choice is via a laparoscopic retroperitoneal approach. This is minimally invasive surgery where the incision is hidden in the back. There is rapid recovery and minimal post operative pain. The hospital stay is usually 2 nights with 1-2 weeks off work after surgery.