Laparoscopic adrenalectomy for large-volume (> or = 5 cm) adrenal masses

Outcomes of Minimally Invasive Adrenalectomy for Large Adrenal Masses: A Multi-Centre Experience in Saudi Arabia

Introduction Advancements in radiological imaging technology have increased the discovery of adrenal incidentalomas. Large adrenal tumors (LATs) are not common, and the likelihood of malignancy increases with tumor size. LATs were defined as tumors larger than four centimeters (cm) with various pathologic diagnoses. Traditionally, open adrenalectomy was considered the gold standard for LATs, but with recent advancements in minimally invasive surgery (MIS), optimum perioperative and long-term outcomes are achievable by the MIS approach. The findings presented in this paper show that even large adrenal masses measuring up to 21 centimeters can be safely removed using a minimally invasive approach. Methodology After Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval, we reviewed medical records of adult patients who had adrenalectomies at two Saudi Arabian centers from January 2013 to February 2023. Inclusion criteria were laparoscopic or robotic adrenalectomy and adrenal lesions ≥5cm. Pediatric patients and those with open adrenalectomies were excluded. Pre-surgery, patients had imaging studies to assess mass characteristics. Pheochromocytoma patients received a 2-week adrenergic blocker treatment. Perioperative data including demographics, comorbidities, mass characteristics, surgery details, and follow-up were analyzed using SPSS-23. Patients provided informed consent and had follow-up appointments and imaging. Results Our experience involved 35 patients, 29 of whom received laparoscopic treatment and six of whom underwent robotic surgery. Of the 35 patients, more than half were females (57.1%), with a mean age of 41.7±14.9 years, the youngest and oldest participants being 16 and 73 years of age, respectively. The mean body mass index (BMI) of the participants was in the overweight range (26±6.0 kg/m2). The most common mode of presentation was incidental (42.9%), followed by hypertension (17.1%). Most patients had right-sided adrenal gland involvement (48.6%), with only four patients showing bilateral involvement. Most of the patients were classified as American Society of Anesthesiology score (ASA) 2 (40.0%) or ASA 3 (40.0%). Most of the patients were diagnosed with myelolipoma or adenoma (22.9% each) followed by pheochromocytoma (17.1%). The average estimated blood loss (EBL) was 189.3±354.6 ml for patients who underwent laparoscopic surgery and 80.0 ±34.6 ml for patients who underwent robotic surgery. The average operative room time (ORT) was 220.1±98.7 minutes (min) for laparoscopic surgery and 188.3±10.3 min for robotic surgery. One patient had to be converted from laparoscopic to open surgery due to aortic injury. The average length of stay (LOS) was 9.5±6.7 days for laparoscopic treatment and 5.5±1.9 days for robotic surgery. The mean tumor size in the greatest dimension was 8.0±4.4 cm. Only one patient who underwent unilateral laparoscopy experienced perioperative complications and converted to open surgery; nine patients who underwent unilateral laparoscopy required blood transfusion, and none of the patients who underwent robotic surgery required transfusion. None of the 35 patients experienced a recurrence of their adrenal disease during the mean follow-up period which lasted around 58 months. Conclusion MIS in Saudi Arabia is growing and is a safe method for LATs, with satisfactory surgical results compared to the traditional open surgery approach. It offers advantages in terms of EBL, complications, and disease recurrence.

Safety and effectiveness of minimally invasive adrenalectomy versus open adrenalectomy in patients with large adrenal tumors (≥5 cm): A meta-analysis and systematic review

BACKGROUND

This systematic review and meta-analysis compared the safety and effectiveness of minimally invasive adrenalectomy (MIA) with open adrenalectomy (OA) in patients with large adrenal tumors (≥5 cm).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a systematic review and cumulative meta-analysis of the primary outcomes according to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) and AMSTAR (Assessing the methodological quality of systematic reviews) Guidelines. Five databases including Medline, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science were systematically searched. The time frame of the search was set from the creation of the database to March 2022.

RESULTS

Ten studies including 898 patients were included. Compared to OA, MIA is superior for length of stay [LOS WMD = -3.52, 95% CI (-4.61, -2.43), P < 0.01], drainage time [DT WMD = -0.68, 95% CI (-1.27, -0.09), P < 0.05] and fasting time [FT WMD = -0.95, 95% CI (-1.35, -0.55), P < 0.01], estimated blood loss [EBL WMD = -314.22, 95% CI (-494.76, -133.69), P < 0.01] and transfusion [WMD = -416.73, 95% CI (-703.75, -129.72), P < 0.01], while operative time (OT) and complications are not statistically different. For pheochromocytoma, MIA remains superior for LOS [WMD = -3.10, 95% CI (-4.61, -1.60), P < 0.01] and EBL [WMD = -273.65, 95% CI (-457.44, -89.86), P < 0.01], while OT and complications are not significantly different.

CONCLUSION

MIA offers advantages over OA in the management of large adrenal tumors, including in the case of a specific large adrenal tumor - large pheochromocytoma.

When a Multidisciplinary Approach Is Life-Saving: A Case Report of Cardiogenic Shock Induced by a Large Pheochromocytoma

BACKGROUND

Pheochromocytoma is known for its instantaneous presentation, especially in the younger population. Hemodynamic instability may be the cause of severe complications and impede patients' ability to undergo surgical treatment. These tumours are surgically difficult to treat due to the risk of catecholamine release during their manipulations, and when they are large, the tumour size represents an additional challenge. In our report, cardiogenic shock developed due to increases in systemic vascular resistance, and the lesion's size induced surgeons to perform open surgery.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 46-year-old female patient was admitted to our intensive care unit with hypertension and later cardiogenic shock. Systolic dysfunction was noted, along with severely increased systemic vascular resistance. A CT scan showed a left-sided 8.5 cm adrenal mass, which was confirmed as pheochromocytoma using meta-iodobenzylguanidine scintigraphy. Anaesthesiologists and the surgical team planned an effective strategy of treatment. Given the lesion's size and its apparent invasion of the neighbouring organs, open adrenalectomy (after prolonged hemodynamic stabilisation) was considered safer. The surgery was successful, and the patient remains free from disease two years after the initial event.

CONCLUSIONS

Large pheochromocytoma can be safely and effectively treated with open surgery by experienced hands but only by seeking to reach hemodynamic stabilisation and minimising the release of catecholamine before and during surgery.

Cancer risk in adrenalectomy: are adrenal lesions equal or more than 4 cm a contraindication for laparoscopy?

Background

Some authors consider adrenal lesions size of less than 4 cm as a positive cut-off limit to set the indications for minimally invasive surgery due to a lower risk of malignancy. Aim of this study is to report the risk of cancer for adrenal lesions measuring 4 cm or more in diameter, assessed as benign at preoperative workup (primary outcome), and to evaluate the feasibility and safety of laparoscopic adrenalectomy (LA) in these cases (secondary outcome).

Methods

From January 1994 to February 2019, 579 patients underwent adrenalectomy. Fifty patients with a preoperative diagnosis of primary adrenal cancer or metastases were excluded. The remaining 529 patients were included and divided in five subgroups based on adrenal lesion size at definitive histology: group A, 4–5.9 cm (137 patients); group B, 6–7.9 cm (64 patients); group C, 8–9.9 cm (13 patients); group D, ≥ 10 cm (11 patients); group E, < 4 cm (304 patients). Each group was further divided based on diagnosis of benign or malignant lesions at definitive histology.

Results

Four (2.9%) malignant lesions were observed in group A, 5 (7.8%) in group B, 2 (15.4%) in Groups C and D (18.2%) and 13 (4.3%) in Group E. Comparing the cancer risk among the groups, no statistically significant differences were observed. Operative time increased with increasing lesion size. However, no statistically significant differences were observed between benign and malignant lesions in each group comparing operative time, conversion and complication rates, postoperative hospital stay and mortality rate.

Conclusions

Adrenal lesions measuring 4 cm or more in diameter are not a contraindication for LA neither in terms of cancer risk nor of conversion and morbidity rates, even if the operative time increases with increasing adrenal lesion diameter. Further prospective studies with a larger number of patients are required to draw definitive conclusions.

Is 6 cm Diameter an Upper Limit for Adrenal Tumors to Perform Laparoscopic Adrenalectomy?

Background: We aimed to compare the results of patients who underwent laparoscopic adrenalectomy (LA) for masses ≥6 cm versus <6 cm in diameter in our tertiary referral university hospital. Materials and Methods: Three hundred thirty consecutive patients were divided into two groups according to tumor size (≥6 and <6 cm in diameter). Demographic variables, body mass index (BMI), lesion localization (right/left), tumor diameter, pathological diagnosis and surgical outcomes, including operation time, estimated blood loss (EBL), conversion to open surgery, complications, and length of hospital stay were compared between groups. Results: Between February 2008 and March 2020, 53 patients (29 male-24 female) with ≥6 cm (L group) adrenal tumor and 277 patients (105 male-172 female) with <6 cm tumor (S group) underwent transperitoneal LA. One hundred sixty-eight (50.9%) tumors localized on the left side. In L group mean tumor size in female and male patients was 87.5 ± 40.8 mm (range 50-225 mm) and 67.3 ± 18.4 mm (range 10-100 mm), respectively (P < .05). Age, American Society of Anesthesiology scores, BMI, and mean operation time were similar between groups (P > .05). Postoperative complications were more often in L group (P = .005). EBL in group L and group S was 86 ± 70.4 mL (range 10-500 mL) and 55 ± 44.2 mL (range 10-300 mL), respectively (P = .003). Length of hospital stay in group L and group S was 3.7 ± 3.5 days (range 1-26) and 3 ± 1.6 days (range 1-9), respectively (P = .086). Significant variables in multivariate analysis, including gender (male), EBL, and postoperative complication rate, were entered into multivariate regression analysis, which presented that EBL and postoperative complication rates were independent significants for the L group. Conclusion: Six centimeters should not be considered as an upper limit of transperitoneal lateral LA and may be safely performed in centers with experience. Further studies are needed to confirm our data.

Laparoscopic hand-assisted adrenalectomy for tumours larger than 5 cm

OBJECTIVE

Adrenal surgery remains a distinct surgical challenge. Technical challenges associated with laparoscopic adrenalectomy are tumour size, haemorrhage control and oncological compromise. Hand-assisted laparoscopic (HAL) adrenalectomy, utilizing a hand-port device, offers minimally invasive surgery with the advantages and safety of tactile feedback. We aimed to assess the efficacy of HAL for patients requiring adrenalectomy for tumours over 5 cm in size.

CONTEXT

Hand-assisted laparoscopic surgery is used in several surgical specialities over totally laparoscopic surgery to manage sizeable pathology, reduce operating time and conversion rates. HAL adrenalectomy is demonstrated in this series as a safe alternative to laparoscopic adrenalectomy for large adrenal tumours.

DESIGN

A retrospective analysis of all HAL adrenalectomies performed over 8 years (October 2006-May 2015) by a single surgeon was performed. This case series is the largest study of this technique.

PATIENTS

All patients who were fit for surgery with adrenal tumours (over 5 cm) were included.

ANALYSIS

Primary endpoints were overall mortality, operating time, hospital stay, complications and conversion to open surgery.

RESULTS

A total of 56 patients underwent the procedure. A total of 43 had unilateral and 13 bilateral lesions. Most lesions (45) were histologically benign. These included functioning and non-functioning tumours. Median tumour size was 8 cm (range 5-19 cm). There was one (1.8%) intra-operative conversion and no peri-operative mortality. Postoperative complications occurred in 8 (14%) patients, all self-limiting. The median length of stay was 6 days (range 2-21). There was one recurrence of pathology with repeat surgery.

CONCLUSION

Hand-assisted laparoscopic surgery offers a safe reproducible approach to adrenal surgery combining minimally invasive surgery with tactile integration. Although previously described in small numbers, this represents the largest case series to date. HAL is a safe minimally invasive surgical option for larger tumours, including malignancies. The HAL technique may additionally offer a shorter learning curve for trainee adrenal surgeons.

What the radiologist needs to know: the role of preoperative computed tomography in selection of operative approach for adrenalectomy and review of operative techniques

Adrenalectomy is the standard of care for management of many adrenal tumor types and, in the United States alone, approximately 6000 adrenal surgeries are performed annually. Two general approaches to adrenalectomy have been described; (1) the open approach, in which a diseased adrenal is removed through a large (10-20 cm) abdominal wall incision, and (2) the minimally invasive approach, in which laparoscopy is used to excise the gland through incisions generally no longer than 1-2 cm. Given these disparate technique options, clear preoperative characterization of those specific disease features that inform selection of adrenalectomy approach is critically important to the surgeon. Because most of these features are directly assessed via preoperative abdominal imaging, in particular computed tomography (CT) scanning, a clear mutual understanding among surgeons and radiologists of those adrenal tumor features impacting operative approach selection is vital for planning adrenal surgery. In this context, we review the preoperative CT imaging features that specifically inform adrenalectomy approach selection, provide illustrative examples from our institution's imaging and surgical archives, and provide a stepwise guide to both the open and laparoscopic adrenalectomy approaches.

Transperitoneal versus retroperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomy for large pheochromocytoma: Comparative outcomes

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate operative and oncological outcomes of laparoscopic adrenalectomy through a transperitoneal approach and retroperitoneal approach for large (>5 cm in diameter) pheochromocytomas.

METHODS

We retrospectively compared the results of a transperitoneal approach with those of a retroperitoneal approach in 22 patients (mean age 57.5 years, range 38-76 years) with unilateral large pheochromocytomas (12 right, 10 left). The mean body mass index, operation time, pneumoperitoneum time, estimated blood loss, fluctuation in blood pressure and complication rate were compared between the two approaches.

RESULTS

The mean tumor diameter (range) was 7.0 cm (range 5.2-15.5 cm), and no significant differences were observed between the transperitoneal approach and retroperitoneal approach in any baseline clinical parameter. For right-sided procedures, significant differences were found for operation time (113 vs 85 min), pneumoperitoneum time (93 vs 64 min) and estimated blood loss (96 vs 23 mL; P < 0.05, transperitoneal approach and retroperitoneal approach, respectively). No open conversion or recurrence was reported, but one right transperitoneal approach case required blood transfusion. No difference in these parameters was noted on the left side.

CONCLUSIONS

For right side procedures, the retroperitoneal approach is feasible, safer and faster than the transperitoneal approach for large pheochromocytomas. Early transection of the feeding artery is beneficial for managing the tumor and reducing the risk of bleeding.

Images: Port site recurrence on followup imaging after adrenalectomy for adrenocortical carcinoma - first indicator of carcinomatosis

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare and aggressive malignancy of the adrenal cortex. Complete surgical resection is essential for localized tumours because ACC is highly resistant to chemotherapy and radiotherapy.1 Use of a laparoscopic approach for adrenalectomy in the setting of a confirmed or suspected ACC is controversial because it is unknown if laparoscopy provides equivalent oncological outcomes compared to an open approach.

Preoperative risk factors for massive blood loss in adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma

Background

This retrospective analysis of patients who underwent adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma aimed to determine preoperative risk factors for intraoperative massive blood loss. Preoperative identification of patients at high-risk of massive blood loss may be helpful in anesthesia management and preoperative preparation.

Materials and Methods

The study involved data of 268 patients who had undergone pheochromocytoma surgery at the Peking Union Medical College Hospital between January 1, 2013 and October 31, 2016. For analysis, the patients were grouped according to intraoperative blood loss: ≥ 20% of estimated blood volume (group A, n = 38) and < 20% of estimated blood volume (group B, n = 230). Perioperative characteristics were compared between the two groups. Significant variables were selected for a forward stepwise binary logistic regression analysis to determine the independent risk factors for massive blood loss.

Results

The two groups showed significant differences in tumor location, tumor size, operative approach, preoperative 24-hour urine level of total noradrenaline, preoperative hemoglobin concentration, phenoxybenzamine maximum daily dose, preoperative preparation time, intraoperative urine volume, crystalloid and colloidal fluid volumes, allogeneic red blood cell transfusion, plasma and autologous blood transfusion volumes, incidence of prolonged hypotension, postoperative drainage volume, lowest and discharge hemoglobin concentrations, length of stay in intensive care unit and length of postoperative hospitalization. Binary logistic regression analysis indicated increased risk of intraoperative massive blood loss in subjects with tumors proximal to vessels or other organs (odds ratio (OR): 4.227), with tumors ≥ 5 cm (OR: 7.321), or with preoperative preparation time of ≤ 14 days (OR: 17.747).

Conclusions

Tumors proximal to vessels and other organs or with maximum diameter of ≥ 5 cm (as shown by preoperative radiographic evidence), and preoperative preparation time of ≤ 14 days were independent risk factors of intraoperative massive blood loss in patients treated with adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma.

Patients criteria determining difficulty of the laparoscopic lateral transperitoneal adrenalectomy. A retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Identification of patients in whom adrenalectomy may be more difficult, can help in decision making in borderline and doubtful cases. The aim of the study was to determine patients criteria influencing difficulty of laparoscopic lateral transperitoneal adrenalectomy (LTA).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study enrolled 275 patients who underwent LTA. We analyzed the impact of gender, age, history of previous abdominal surgery, body mass index, risk of anesthesia measured as ASA scale, size, localization (left/right), and histological type of the tumor on parameters reflecting the level of difficulty of the procedure: operative time, intraoperative blood loss, conversion rate and intraoperative complications rate.

RESULTS

Multivariate logistic regression showed that following factors were associated with longer operative time: gender, tumor size and malignant lesions. In another model it was shown that age, size of the tumor and malignancy were associated with more excessive blood loss. Moreover, it was shown, that tumor size predictive factor for conversion. Univariate analysis showed a relation with malignancy, but multivariate analysis revealed no significance.

CONCLUSIONS

Patient age, gender, size and histological type of the tumor are criteria influencing parameters reflecting the level of difficulty. This criteria could be considered as predictors of the difficulty of LTA. Surgery in case of patients with combination of this risk factors should be handled by surgeon with sufficient experience to minimalize the risk of adverse events.

Laparoscopic left and right adrenalectomy from an anterior approach - is there any difference? Outcomes in 176 consecutive patients

Introduction

Traditionally, in open surgery, right adrenalectomy is considered technically more demanding than its left-sided counterpart. This belief is supposed to be attributable mainly to different anatomic characteristics of the adrenal veins. Whether this opinion is also correct for laparoscopic adrenalectomy remains elusive.

Aim

To compare the outcomes of left versus right laparoscopic adrenalectomy from an anterior approach.

Material and methods

Retrospective statistical analysis of a prospectively compiled database of consecutive patients undergoing laparoscopic adrenalectomy in a single center with focus on potential differences in the left- versus right-sided procedure in terms of demographic parameters, tumor size, operating time, occurrence of serious intraoperative complications, conversion, length of hospital stay and re-operation rate.

Results

One hundred seventy-six patients underwent elective laparoscopic adrenalectomy – 80 left-sided (45.45%) and 96 right-sided (54.55%). No significant difference was found between the groups in terms of age (54.09 ±11.2 vs. 56.27 ±11.6; p = 0.2), tumor size (3.39 ±1.86 vs. 3.26 ±1.66; p = 0.64), operating time (71.84 ±22.33 vs. 72.06 ±30.99; p = 0.95), occurrence of serious intraoperative complications (7.5% vs. 10.4%; p = 0.5), conversion (1.25% vs. 1.04%; p = 0.9), length of hospital stay (4.52 ±1.30 vs. 4.37 ±1.91; p = 0.55) or reoperation rate (5% vs. 1%; p = 0.11). There was no mortality.

Conclusions

No significant difference was found between the left and right laparoscopic adrenalectomy in terms of operating time, occurrence of serious intraoperative complications, conversion rate or postoperative outcome. Therefore, the opinion that the right-sided procedure is more difficult does not seem to be justified for laparoscopic adrenalectomy from the anterior approach.

Laparoscopic Transperitoneal Lateral Adrenalectomy for Large Adrenal Tumors

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is the gold standard for treatment of benign adrenal lesions. Tumor size is a factor that might influence decision-making concerning the use of laparoscopic approach. The aim of this study was to analyze the results of adrenalectomy for tumors ≥6 cm in diameter.

METHODS

Two groups of patients were analyzed: first group comprised 441 patients with tumors <6 cm in diameter and second group consisted of 89 patients with tumors ≥6 cm. Both groups were compared with regard to the duration of surgery, intraoperative blood loss, conversion and complications rate.

RESULTS

Median duration of surgery in groups 1 and 2 amounted to 86.6 and 111.9 min (p < 0.0001), respectively. Median intraoperative blood loss in groups 1 and 2 was 56.5 and 172.8 ml (p < 0.0001), respectively. There was a linear relationship between tumor size and the duration of surgery, and between tumor size and intraoperative blood loss (p < 0.0001). There were 2 (0.5%) and 6 (6.7%) conversions in groups 1 and 2, respectively. There were 41 (9.3%) and 14 (15.7%) complications in groups 1 and 2 (p = 0.0692), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy of tumors ≥6 cm is more difficult, but it can be regarded safe and beneficial for patients.

Laparoscopic Adrenalectomy for Large Adrenocortical Carcinoma

Background:

Adrenocortical cancer (ACC) is a rare disease that is difficult to treat. Laparoscopic adrenalectomy (LA) is performed, even for large adrenocortical carcinomas. However, the oncological effectiveness of LA remains unclear. This review presents the current knowledge of the feasibility and oncological effectiveness of laparoscopic surgery for ACC, with an analysis of data for outcomes and other parameters.

Database:

A systematic review of the literature was performed by searching the PubMed and Medline databases for all relevant articles in English, published between January 1992 and August 2014 on LA for adrenocortical carcinoma.

Discussion:

The search resulted in retrieval of 29 studies, of which 10 addressed the outcome of LA versus open adrenalectomy (OA) and included 844 patients eligible for this review. Among these, 206 patients had undergone LA approaches, and 638 patients had undergone OA. Among the 10 studies that compared the outcomes obtained with LA and OA for ACC, 5 noted no statistically significant difference between the 2 groups in the oncological outcomes of recurrence and disease-free survival, whereas the remaining 5 reported inferior outcomes in the LA group. Using a paired t test for statistical analysis, except for tumor size, we found no significant difference in local recurrence, peritoneal carcinomatosis, positive resection margin, and time to recurrence between the LA and OA groups. The overall mean tumor size in patients undergoing LA and OA was 7.1 and 11.2 cm, respectively (P = .0003), and the mean overall recurrence was 61.5 and 57.9%, respectively. The outcome of LA is believed to depend to a large extent on the size and stage of the lesion (I and II being favorable) and the surgical expertise in the center where the patient undergoes the operation. However, the present review shows no difference in the outcome between the 2 approaches across all stages. A poor outcome is likely to result from inadequate surgery, irrespective of whether the approach is open or laparoscopic.

Applicability of laparoscopic approach to the resection of large adrenal tumours: a retrospective cohort study on 200 patients

BACKGROUND

Controversies exist in the best surgical approach (open vs. laparoscopy) to large adrenal tumours without peri-operative evidence of primary carcinoma, mainly due to possible capsular disruption of an unsuspected malignancy. In addition, intra-operative blood loss, conversion rate, operative time, and hospital stay may be increased with laparoscopy.

THE AIMS OF OUR STUDY WERE

(1) to compare clinical outcomes of laparoscopic adrenalectomy for large versus small adrenal tumours and (2) to identify risk factors associated with increased operative time and hospital stay in laparoscopic adrenalectomy.

METHODS

This is a multicentre retrospective cohort study in a large patient population (N = 200) who underwent laparoscopic adrenalectomy in 2004-2014 at three Italian academic hospitals. Patients were divided into two cohorts according to tumour size: "large" tumours were defined as ≥5 cm (N = 50) and "small" tumours as <5 cm (N = 150). Further analysis adopting a ≥8 cm (N = 15) cut-off size was performed.

RESULTS

The study groups were comparable in age and gender distribution as well as their tumour characteristics. The operative time (p = 0.671), conversion rate (p = 0.488), intra- (p = 0.876) and post-operative (p = 0.639) complications, and hospital stay (p = 0.229) were similar between groups. With a cut-off size ≥5 cm, the early study period (2004-2009), which included operators' learning curve, was associated with increased risk of longer operative time (HR 0.57; 95 % CI 0.40-0.82), while American Society of Anaesthesiology score ≥3 was associated with prolonged hospital stay (HR 0.67; 95 % CI 0.47-0.97). Tumour size ≥8 cm was associated with prolonged operative time (HR 0.47; 95 % CI 0.24-0.94).

CONCLUSIONS

Surgeons skilled in advanced laparoscopy and adrenal surgery can perform laparoscopic adrenalectomy safely in patients with ≥5-cm tumours with no increase in hospital stay, or conversion rate, although operative time may be increased for ≥8-cm tumours. Surgeon' experience, size ≥8 cm, and patient comorbidities have the largest impact on operative time and length of hospital stay in laparoscopic large adrenal tumour resection.

Risk of adrenocortical carcinoma in adrenal tumours greater than 8 cm

BACKGROUND

Adrenocortical cancer (ACC) is a rare malignancy. In the absence of metastatic disease, the suspicion of ACC is based on size and radiological appearance. The aim of this study was to analyse the long-term outcome of patients with large adrenal cortical tumours (>8 cm).

METHODS

A prospective database recorded clinical, biochemical, operative and histological data on patients operated for cortical adrenal tumours between January 2000 and February 2013. Out of 130 patients operated for cortical adrenal tumours, analysis was restricted to 37 cortical tumours >8 cm.

RESULTS

There were 31 (84 %) ACCs and 6 (16 %) benign adenomas (p < 0.01). The most common presentation was that of an abdominal mass [17 (55 %) vs. 3 (50 %), ACC vs. benign, respectively]. There was no difference in size between stage II and stage III-IV tumours; however, there was a trend for tumours to be heavier in advanced stages (920 ± 756 vs. 1,435 ± 1,022 g, p = 0.08, stage II vs. stage III-IV, respectively). No mortality was observed in patients with benign tumours during a median follow-up of 70 months (range 36-99 months). Mortality in the ACC group occurred in 17/31 (55 %) patients. Mitotane was administered in 12 (71 %) patients with stage III-IV ACCs with a 5-year survival rate 25 % compared to 20 % in patients who did not receive Mitotane. In stage II ACC, eight (57 %) patients received Mitotane with a 50 % mortality at 5 years.

CONCLUSIONS

The high incidence of ACC in cortical tumours >8 cm underlines the need for adequate surgical resection via open surgery aiming to avoid local recurrence. Beyond surgery, the impact of other therapies is not fully characterised and the efficacy of adjuvant Mitotane treatment is yet to be proven.

Laparoscopic transperitoneal lateral adrenalectomy for malignant and potentially malignant adrenal tumours

Background

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is still controversial in cases where malignancy is suspected. However, many proponents of this technique argue that in the hands of an experienced surgeon, laparoscopy can be safely performed. The aim of this study is to present our own experience with the application of laparoscopic surgery for the treatment of malignant and potentially malignant adrenal tumours.

Methods

Our analysis included 52 patients who underwent laparoscopic adrenalectomy in 2003–2014 due to a malignant or potentially malignant adrenal tumour. Inclusion criteria were primary adrenal malignancy, adrenal metastasis or pheochromocytoma with a PASS score greater than 6. We analyzed the conversion rate, intra- and postoperative complications, intraoperative blood loss and R0 resection rate. Survival was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method.

Results

Conversion was necessary in 5 (9.7 %) cases. Complications occurred in a total of 6 patients (11.5 %). R0 resection was achieved in 41 (78.8 %) patients and R1 resection in 9 (17.3 %) patients. In 2 (3.9 %) cases R2 resection was performed. The mean follow-up time was 32.9 months. Survival depended on the type of tumour and was comparable with survival after open adrenalectomy presented in other studies.

Conclusions

We consider that laparoscopic surgery for adrenal malignancy can be an equal alternative to open surgery and in the hand of an experienced surgeon it guarantees the possibility of noninferiority. Additionally, starting a procedure with laparoscopy allows for minimally invasive evaluation of peritoneal cavity. The key element in surgery for any malignancy is not the surgical access itself but the proper technique.

Safety and feasibility of laparoscopic adrenalectomy: What is the role of tumour size? A single institution experience

BACKGROUND:

Although, there are studies in the literature having shown the feasibility and safety of laparoscopic adrenalectomy, there are still debates for tumour size and the requirement of the minimal invasive approach. Our hypothesis was that the use of laparoscopy facilitates minimally invasive resection of large adrenal tumours regardless of tumour size.

Materials and Methods:

Within 7 years, 149 patients underwent laparoscopic adrenalectomy at one institution. The patients were divided into two study groups according to tumour size. Group 1 included patients with adrenal tumours smaller than 5 cm and group 2 included larger than 5 cm. Patient demographics and clinical parameters, operative time, complications, hospital stay and final pathology were analysed. Statistical analyses of clinical and perioperative parameters were performed using Student's t-test and Chi-square tests.

RESULTS:

There were 88 patients in group 1 and 70 in group 2. There were no significant differences between study groups regarding patient demographics, operative time, hospital stay, and complications. Estimated blood loss was significantly higher in group 2 (P = 0.002). The conversion to open rate was similar between study groups with 5.6% versus 4.2%, respectively. Pathology was similar between groups.

CONCLUSION:

Our study shows that the use laparoscopy for adrenal tumours larger than 5 cm is a safe and feasible technique. Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is our preferred minimally invasive surgical approach for removing large adrenal tumours.

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma is more difficult compared to other adrenal tumors

Introduction

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is the gold standard for the treatment of benign adrenal tumors. However, some authors raise the problem of differences in surgery for pheochromocytoma in comparison to other lesions.

Aim

To compare laparoscopic adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma and for other tumors.

Material and methods

Four hundred and thirty-seven patients with adrenal tumors were included in the retrospective analysis. Patients were divided into two groups: 1 (124 patients treated for pheochromocytoma) and 2 (313 patients with other types of tumor). The two groups were compared with respect to mean operative time, intraoperative blood loss, conversion rate, complication rate and the relationship of tumor size with operative time.

Results

The mean operative time in group 1 was 91 min, and in group 2 it was 82 min (p = 0.016). In both groups 1 and 2, tumor size correlated with operative time (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.0003, respectively). The mean blood loss in groups 1 and 2 was 117 ml and 54 ml, respectively (p = 0.0011). The complication rate in groups 1 and 2 was 4% and 4.2%, respectively (p = 0.9542). In groups 1 and 2, conversion was necessary in 2 (1.6%) and 5 (1.6%) cases, respectively (p = 0.9925).

Conclusions

Longer operative time and higher blood loss after laparoscopic adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma indicate its greater difficulty. However, despite these drawbacks, minimally invasive surgery still seems to be an effective and safe method.

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy for the management of benign and malignant adrenal tumors

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy has become the preferred approach for removal of the adrenal gland. Many published studies support the use of laparoscopic adrenalectomy, with comparisons to open adrenalectomy suggesting many advantages to laparoscopy, including less postoperative pain, shorter hospital stay and earlier return to work. Adrenalectomy is usually required for the removal of adrenal tumors causing excess hormone production or because a malignant adrenal tumor cannot be excluded. Current controversies include the appropriateness of laparoscopic adrenalectomy for large or malignant tumors, the role of partial adrenalectomy and the management of some conditions with uncertain natural history (such as subclinical hypercortisolism). With the increased use of sensitive cross-sectional imaging, the detection of clinically inapparent adrenal masses is likely to continue to increase. Due to the fact that malignancy cannot be excluded with certainty in some patients with cortical adenomas, it is expected that the rate of laparoscopic adrenalectomy will continue to increase.

[Laparoscopic adrenalectomy in giant masses]

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is considered the treatment of choice in the surgical management of the most majority of the adrenal diseases. Nevertheless, one of the much discussed topics is the dimensional cut-off for the laparoscopic treatment and it is not clear if laparoscopy should be used in large adrenal masses.Introduction. Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is the goal standard in benign adrenal masses smaller than 6 cm, while its advantages in masses larger than this cut-off and in malignant lesions is still discussed.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We present six cases of laparoscopic adrenalectomy since November 2008 for masses between 7 and 15 cm; 4 men and 2 women. 3 right and 3 left. A complete adrenal endocrinological evaluation demonstrated that the lesions were not secreting tumors. All patients were studied with CT scan.The technique was performed using a flank approach with a 45° tilt. We used 5 trocars in patients who had the masses on the right side, and 4 in those who had the lesions on the left side. After creating an adequate pneumoperitoneum through an open access, the posterior peritoneum cutting, mobilization of the colon, medial dissection of the adrenal gland, and ligation of the main adrenal vein were performed. The adrenal gland was carefully dissected by Ultracision. The mass was extracted by endobag through an additional subcostal port. The mean operative time was 120 minutes. Blood loss was about 50 cc. The drainage was removed on day 2 after surgery and the patient was discharged on day 3. No postoperative complication occurred. The anatomopathologic exam gave evidence of myelolipoma and hemorrhagic cyst.

DISCUSSION

The benefits of the laparoscopic approach are widely demonstrated and consist of a shorter hospital stay, reduced morbility, decreased analgesic requirement, and reduced intraoperative blood loss. One of the most discussed topics is the dimensional cut-off and it is not clear if the laparoscopy approach should be used in large adrenal masses (considering the longer operative time and increasing blood loss). Many surgeons performed laparoscopic adrenalectomy for masses of up to 13 cm, thus demonstrating that this procedure is safe and effective. A limitation of laparoscopic approach for adrenal giant masses is the increased risk to treat an adrenal cortical carcinoma.

CONCLUSIONS

Our experience, supported by the literature, demonstrates that the laparoscopic adrenalectomy is a feasible and effective surgical technique also in the case of giant masses. Preoperative diagnosis has a predominant role to determine the contraindication of this technique (invasive adrenal carcinoma).

The anterior approach to retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy in children: technique

PURPOSE

Very limited literature exists on minimally invasive adrenalectomy in children. Retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy (RPA) has the advantage of avoiding intra-abdominal organ retraction, but concerns have been expressed regarding RPA on the right side. Herein, we describe the second reported experience with the anterior approach to RPA in children, which appears to overcome the limitations previously ascribed to right RPA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Two children, aged 8 and 14-years, presented with incidental right adrenal masses. Both patients were placed in the lateral decubitus position with lumbar hyper-extension. A 5-mm, 3-port approach was used, as demonstrated in the video.

RESULTS

Pathology revealed a 7-cm ganglioneuroma and a 5-cm pheochromocytoma with intact surgical margins. Operative time with these large masses and first experience with this technique was 5 h in the first case and 3.5 h in the second. No intraoperative or postoperative complications were noted, with minimal blood loss and a hospital stay of 36 h in both cases.

CONCLUSION

The anterior approach to RPA is feasible even in children with a smaller retroperitoneal space and a large adrenal mass. It provides excellent exposure of the adrenal gland and vein, even on the right side.

Retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy in pheochromocytoma

Since the first laparoscopic adrenalectomy, the technique has evolved and it has become the standard of care for many adrenal diseases, including pheochromocytoma. Two laparoscopic accesses to the adrenal have been developed: transperitoneal and retroperitoneal. Retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy may be recommended for the treatment of pheochromocytoma with the same peri-operative outcomes of the transperitoneal approach because it allows direct access to the adrenal glands without increasing the operative risks. Although technically more demanding than the transperitoneal approach, retroperitoneoscopy can shorten the mean operative time, which is critical for cases with pheochromocytoma where minimizing the potential for intra-operative hemodynamic changes is essential. Blood loss and the convalescence time can be also shortened by this approach. There is no absolute indication for either the transperitoneal or retroperitoneal approach; however, the latter procedure may be the best option for patients who have undergone previous abdominal surgery and obese patients. Also, retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy is a good alternative for treating cases with inherited pheochromocytomas, such as multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2A, in which the pheochromocytoma is highly prevalent and frequently occurs bilaterally.

Laparoscopic resection of a large (11 cm) adrenal phaeochromocytoma

Pheochromocytoma is a rare cause of hypertension. Usually the tumour arises in the adrenal and the only cure is surgical extirpation. Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is the gold standard. Traditionally, laparoscopic removal of adrenal tumour of more than 5-6 cm in size is contraindicated. The authors removed a 11×8 cm phaeochromocytoma by laparoscopic approach without any complications. A 52-year-old male presented with complaints of throbbing headache with palpitations. On evaluation, he was found to be severely hypertensive and his blood sugar levels were moderately elevated. Radiological investigations revealed a 11×8 cm left supra renal mass. A provisional diagnosis of left pheochromocytoma was made which was strengthened by the fact that 24 hourly urine sample revealed elevated vanillylmandelic acid levels. The authors decided to surgically extirpate the adrenal mass. This was successfully accomplished by a laparoscopic transperitoneal approach. No complications were encountered. Histopathology showed pheochromocytoma of left adrenal gland without capsular involvement.

Surgical management of adrenal tumors

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy has become the preferred method for removal of almost all adrenal tumors. An important component in selecting patients for this operation is a thorough understanding of the clinical presentation (mainly hypertension) and diagnostic workup for the full variety of functioning and nonfunctioning adrenal tumors including genetic evaluation when necessary (MEN2, VonHippel-Landau [VHL], type 1 neurofibromatosis [NF1], succinate dehydrogenase mutations [SDH], and MEN1). The indications and contraindications for a laparoscopic approach are discussed with regard to each tumor type. Relevant literature about partial and bilateral adrenalectomy is also summarized. Main areas of controversy are discussed including the size threshold to avoid risk of adrenal capsular effraction and the appropriateness of laparoscopic resection for suspected and known malignancy. This article presents recent data to help the surgeon make well-informed decisions and to optimize the operative approach for a wide variety of adrenal pathologies (secreting vs. non-secreting, benign vs. malignant tumors).

Anatomic retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy for selected adrenal tumors >5 cm: our technique and experience

OBJECTIVES

To introduce our experience in using anatomic retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy (ARA) for adrenal tumors >5 cm and evaluate this procedure's safety and efficiency.

METHODS

Of the 1400 ARAs performed in the past 8 years, 110 were performed on patients who had adrenal tumors with a diameter >5 cm. The perioperative indexes of these patients were retrospectively collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

The mean tumor size on postoperative pathologic examination was 7.2 ± 2.1 cm (range 5-14). Only 1 patient with right-sided adrenal pheochromocytoma (7.8 cm diameter) required conversion to open surgery owing to the tumor's severe adhesions to the liver and inferior vena cava. The mean operative time and evaluated blood loss was 70.8 ± 18.6 minutes and 81.3 ± 46.1 mL, respectively. The average postoperative interval to oral intake and drainage withdrawal was 2.1 and 2.2 days, respectively. No patient died during the operation. Major intraoperative complication (ie, injury to the vena cava) occurred in 1 patient, necessitating open surgery. Minor complications during the perioperative period occurred in 10 patients (9.1%).

CONCLUSIONS

When performed by experienced surgeons, ARA is a safe and feasible procedure for large adrenal masses with a diameter >7 cm; however, this procedure results in a longer operation time and greater blood loss compared with ARA performed on smaller masses. Open surgery is indicated when the tumor adheres to, or has infiltrated, the surrounding tissues.

Is laparoscopy contraindicated in giant adrenal masses?

The first laparoscopic adrenalectomy was performed and described by Gagner in 1992. Since then, this technique has become more and more widespread and there is common agreement in the literature that it is the gold standard for adrenalectomy. Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is indicated in benign adrenal masses, and it is routinely performed in masses smaller than 5 to 7 cm. The laparoscopic procedure in masses larger than this cut-off is discussed, although many investigators agree about its feasibility, safety and effectiveness. We present this case: man, 39 years old, large palpable mass in the right hypochondrium. Computed tomography scan (CT) suggested the diagnosis of giant adrenal myelolipoma (15x12x7 cm). Complete adrenal endoclinologic evaluation showed that the lesion was not a secreting tumor. Laparoscopic adrenalectomy was performed with good results.

Laparoscopic resection of a large adrenal myelolipoma: a case report

A 53 year man presented with pain right upper quadrant for seven months. On evaluation he was found to have a large right adrenal myelolipoma. Laparoscopically by transperitoneal right flank approach this was removed. Postoperative recovery was uneventful. Operative specimen's histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of adrenal myelolipoma.

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy for large adrenal masses: pushing the envelope

PURPOSE

To determine the role of laparoscopy for large adrenal tumors in terms of outcomes, pathology, operative time, and morbidity.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A retrospective review of 24 patients who underwent laparoscopic adrenalectomy was performed to record the size of the lesions, surgical techniques used, operative times, estimated blood loss, duration of hospital stay, need for blood transfusion, conversion to open surgery, and complications. The laparoscopic adrenalectomy patients were divided into two groups based on tumor size: <8 cm (n = 16, group 1) and >or=8 cm (n = 8, group 2).

RESULTS

Mean tumor size was 5.6 cm for group 1 and 12.1 cm for group 2. Mean operative times were 143.12 and 188.75 minutes for groups 1 and 2, respectively. Mean estimated blood loss was 89.69 mL for group 1 and 334.38 mL for group 2. Operative time and blood loss were significantly higher in group 2. Pathologic examination revealed eight adrenal cortical adenomas, five myolipomas, four pheochromocytomas, four cysts/pseudocysts, and three adrenocortical hyperplasias. No significant difference was found between groups concerning transfusion rates, duration of hospital stay, and conversion to open surgery.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is a feasible procedure for large masses but results in longer operative times and higher total blood loss when compared with results for masses smaller than 8 cm. Our findings suggest, however, that laparoscopic adrenalectomy for masses larger than 8 cm can produce comparable results concerning hospital stay, conversion to open surgery rate, and pathologic outcome in comparison with results for adrenal masses smaller than 8 cm.

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy: Norwegian single-center experience of 242 procedures

BACKGROUND

The last 15 years have been characterized by a rapid expansion of minimally invasive surgery as treatment for adrenal diseases. During these years, both indications and surgical techniques have shown improvements. This study analyzed an 11-year single-center experience with laparoscopic adrenalectomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between January 1997 and April 2008, 242 laparoscopic adrenalectomies were performed in 220 patients at Rikshospitalet University Hospital. Of these, 192 patients were operated on for benign lesions, 23 for malignant lesions, and in 5 cases "en bloc" adrenalectomies were performed. Benign lesions included 136 hormonally active lesions (41 pheochromocytomas, 48 Conn adenomas, 25 Cushing adenomas, and 18 patients with Cushing's disease) and 56 with hormonally inactive lesions (among them, 47 nonfunctional adenomas). Malignant lesions included 16 adrenal metastases and 7 adrenocortical carcinomas.

RESULTS

All adrenalectomies were completed laparoscopically. The median time of unilatateral adrenalectomy was 85 (range, 35-325) minutes. The median blood loss was 0 (range, 0-1100) mL. There were 6 intraoperative and 7 postoperative minor complications. The number of complications did not differ between the types of adrenal pathology. Only 19% of the patients required opioids postoperatively. Per- and postoperative parameters were homogeneous among patients with different adrenal lesions. The patients with adrenocortical carcinoma had a distinctive intraoperative course with an evidently longer operative time and higher blood loss. The median postoperative hospital stay was 2 (range, 1-15) days. Hospital stay was the only postoperative parameter where a difference was found between patients with different adrenal lesions. The patients with carcinoma, pheochromocytoma, and Cushing's disease had the longest median postoperative stay, respectively, 5 (range, 2-6), 3 (range, 1-15), and 3 (range, 2-6) days.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is a safe, effective procedure providing improved fast and uncomplicated patient recovery independent of the type of adrenal lesion. Laparoscopic adrenalectomy can be easily introduced and may soon replace traditional open surgery in specialized centers.

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy for large adrenal masses

Open adrenalectomy has been the gold-standard therapy for adrenal neoplasms. Minimally invasive treatments, however, have assumed a more central role in the management of these lesions. The traditional benefits of laparoscopy, including reduced blood loss, shorter hospital duration, and improved convalescence, extend to adrenal disease without compromising the oncologic efficacy of the surgery. Contemporary series suggest that minimally invasive surgery is also a reasonable therapeutic modality for larger adrenal masses. Laparoscopic adrenalectomy for these large masses is a technically demanding procedure that should be undertaken by experienced laparoscopic surgeons familiar with retroperitoneal anatomy and adept with vascular techniques in the event of an open conversion. Oncologic outcomes collectively suggest that in the setting of adequate surgical resection, recurrence patterns relate more to disease-process biology than surgical approach. Neither size criteria, suspicion of malignancy, nor locally invasive disease should be considered an absolute contraindication to laparoscopic adrenalectomy.

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy for adrenal masses: does size matter?

OBJECTIVES

To examine the impact of adrenal tumor size on perioperative morbidity and postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing laparoscopic adrenalectomy.

METHODS

A total of 227 laparoscopic adrenalectomies were divided in three groups according to size as estimated by pathologic specimen maximum diameter: less than 6 cm (group 1, n = 140), between 6 and 7.9 cm (group 2, n = 47), and equal to or larger than 8 cm (group 3, n = 40). We prospectively recorded and analyzed clinical and pathologic data.

RESULTS

Average operative time was 60 minutes (range, 50 to 90 minutes) for group 1, 75 minutes (range, 65 to 105 minutes) for group 2, and 80 minutes (range, 65 to 120 minutes) for group 3. Estimated blood loss, median (interquartile range) was 50 mL (range, 20 to 100 mL), 100 mL (range, 48 to 225 mL), and 100 mL (range, 50 to 475 mL) for groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively. We observed a total of 10, 4, and 4 complications in groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively. Average hospital stay was 2 days (range, 2 to 3 days), 2 days (range, 2 to 3 days), and 3 days (range, 2 to 4 days), respectively, for groups 1, 2, and 3. Operative time, average blood loss, and mean hospital stay were significantly higher (P <or=0.05) for group 3 compared with group 1.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy in large adrenal masses (8 cm or greater) is associated with significantly longer operative time, increased blood loss, and longer hospital stay, without affecting perioperative morbidity.

Laparoscopic and Selective Open Resection for Adrenal and Extraadrenal Neuroendocrine Tumors

Laparoscopic resection is preferred for most adrenal tumors. From 1996 to 2007, 54 consecutive patients who underwent resection of an adrenal tumor or extraadrenal pheochromocytoma were reviewed to determine the outcome of laparoscopic resection and the rate of conversion and indications for open resection. Adrenalectomy was performed in 51 patients and resection of a pheochromocytoma of the organs of Zuckerkandl in three patients. Laparoscopic adrenalectomy was initiated in 42 patients, three (7.3%) of whom underwent conversion to an open approach because of bleeding from an accessory vein (one), tumor invasion (one), or adhesions (one) (median American Society of Anesthesiologists score = 2, estimated blood loss = 186 ± 235 mL, size = 5 ± 3 cm). Open resection was performed in 12 patients, six at the time of another procedure, three for pheochromocytoma of the organs of Zuckerkandl, two for bilateral adrenalectomy, and one for tumor invasion (median American Society of Anesthesiologists score = 3, estimated blood loss = 1525 ± 978 mL, size = 8 ± 4 cm). With proper patient selection, laparoscopic adrenalectomy can be successfully performed with a low conversion rate. When unrecognized, an accessory right adrenal vein may be a source of significant bleeding requiring conversion to an open approach. Open resection is indicated for tumor invasion, for extraadrenal pheochromocytoma, when laparoscopic resection cannot be performed safely, and for concomitant open procedures.

Retrospective comparison of retroperitoneoscopic versus open adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma

PURPOSE

We compared the clinical outcomes of retroperitoneoscopic and open adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Clinical data on 56 patients who underwent retroperitoneoscopic lateral adrenalectomy were retrospectively compared with those on 50 who underwent open adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma, including patient demographic data, perioperative indexes and clinical outcomes.

RESULTS

Demographic data on patients were similar in the 2 groups. In the retroperitoneoscopic group such perioperative indexes were significantly different from those of the open group (each p <0.05), including operative time (mean +/- SD 52 +/- 22 vs 120 +/- 42 minutes), estimated blood loss (74 +/- 34 vs 187 +/- 64 ml), resumption of oral intake (1 vs 2 days), postoperative hospital stay (5.2 +/- 1.7 vs 8.3 +/- 1.8 days), incidence of intraoperative hypertension (17.0% or 9 of 53 patients vs 36.0% or 18 of 50) and number of patients requiring blood transfusion(1.8% or 1 of 53 vs 16.0% or 8 of 50). The incidence of systemic inflammatory response syndrome was much less in the retroperitoneoscopic group (20.8% or 11 of 53 patients vs 42.0% or 21 of 50, p <0.05). However, the duration of systemic inflammatory response syndrome and postoperative complications were similar in the 2 groups (p >0.05). Blood pressure returned to normal 3 months after the operation in 81% of the patients in the retroperitoneoscopic group and in 84% in the open group. During the followup of 5 to 36 months no tumor recurrence and/or metastasis developed.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with open surgery retroperitoneoscopic lateral adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma is a safe, minimally invasive and effective procedure.

Is laparoscopic adrenalectomy safe and effective for adrenal masses larger than 7 cm?

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy (LA) has become the gold standard treatment for small (less than 6 cm) adrenal masses. However, the role of LA for large-volume (more than 6 cm) masses has not been well defined. Our aim was to evaluate, retrospectively, the outcome of LA for adrenal lesions larger than 7 cm.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

18 consecutive laparoscopic adrenalectomies were performed from 1996 to 2005 on patients with adrenal lesions larger than 7 cm.

RESULTS

The mean tumor size was 8.3 cm (range 7-13 cm), the mean operative time was 137 min, the mean blood loss was 182 mL (range 100-550 mL), the rate of intraoperative complications was 16%, and in three cases we switched from laparoscopic procedure to open surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

LA for adrenal masses larger than 7 cm is a safe and feasible technique, offering successful outcome in terms of intraoperative and postoperative morbidity, hospital stay and cosmesis for patients; it seems to replicate open surgical oncological principles demonstrating similar outcomes as survival rate and recurrence rate, when adrenal cortical carcinoma were treated. The main contraindication for this approach is the evidence, radiologically and intraoperatively, of local infiltration of periadrenal tissue.

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy - a review of initial 24 consecutive patients

AIM

To analyze patient demographics, pathology, surgical procedure and outcome in initial 24 consecutive patients who underwent laparoscopic adrenalectomy in our department.

METHODS

Twenty four patients underwent laparoscopic adrenalectomy between September 2000 and August 2005. There were 12 males and 12 females with a mean age of 44.6 years (range 25-68 years). The indications for adrenalectomy were pheochromocytoma (13 patients), Cushing's syndrome (5 patients), myelolipoma (2 patients), adrenal cyst (2 patients), aldosteronoma (1 patient) and adrenal incidentaloma (1 patient). Nineteen of our patients with functioning adrenal tumours were prepared preoperatively for periods ranging up to 2 weeks by the endocrinologist. All laparoscopic adrenalectomies were performed via lateral transperitoneal approach using standard four-port technique. Patients with pheochromocytoma and Cushing's syndrome were monitored in the surgical intensive care unit during immediate postoperative period. The clinical and intraoperative characteristics, complications and outcomes of all patients were analyzed.

RESULTS

The mean operative time for laparoscopic adrenalectomy was 136 minutes. Intraoperative hypertension occurred in 8 patients. Intraoperative hypotension occurred in 2 patients. One patient required conversion due to dense adhesions and hemorrhage. Postoperative complications were seen in six patients - immediate postoperative hypotension (2 patients), features of steroid withdrawal (2 patients) and postoperative pyrexia (2 patients). Five patients with pheochromocytoma required antihypertensive drugs in the postoperative period. There was no mortality in our series.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is a safe operation that incorporates all the benefits of minimal access surgery and is associated with a satisfactory postoperative outcome. A careful preoperative preparation in functioning adrenal tumours aids in the faster recovery of these patients.

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy for suspected metastasis of adrenal glands: our experience

OBJECTIVES

To present our experience in laparoscopic adrenalectomy for isolated adrenal metastasis.

METHODS

A total of 34 adrenalectomies were performed in 32 patients for incidental adrenal masses discovered at primary tumor diagnosis or during follow-up. The primary tumors diagnosed were 13 cases of lung carcinoma, 9 of renal cell carcinoma, 2 of colorectal carcinoma, 2 of bladder carcinoma, and 1 each of ovarian carcinoma, breast cancer, gastric cancer, and melanoma. Two patients had no history of a primary tumor. The mean patient age was 59 years (range 26 to 75). The male/female ratio was 1.9:1.

RESULTS

The mean operative time was 87 minutes (range 40 to 240). The average blood loss was 89 mL (range 0 to 1000). No conversions to open surgery were needed. The mean hospital stay was 3 days (range 1 to 5). One intraoperative diaphragmatic lesion developed that was repaired laparoscopically, and 1 patient had a pancreatic fistula that was managed by percutaneous drainage. The mean tumor size was 4.3 cm (range 1.5 to 9). The microscopic analysis revealed 22 malign lesions (64.7%) and 12 cases of benign pathologic features (35.3%). The mean survival time was 26 months (range 4 to 64) for the 22 patients with malign lesions. In 2 patients (9.1%), the surgical margins were positive.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy for small isolated metastases is feasible. However, because of the high risk of positive margins, this procedure should only be done by expert laparoscopists. We did not find a correlation between mass size and malignancy. Nevertheless, we believe that longer follow-up is mandatory before definitive conclusions can be drawn.

Retroperitoneoscopic Adrenalectomy Without Previous Control of Adrenal Vein Is Feasible and Safe for Pheochromocytoma

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of retroperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma and report our experience in adrenalectomy without previous control of the adrenal vein.

METHODS

From January 2000 to December 2005, 56 patients underwent 58 retroperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomy procedures for the treatment of pheochromocytoma. Adequate preoperative antihypertensive preparation was performed. Intraoperative hemodynamic changes were documented in detail. During surgery, the adrenal vein was identified and ligated after dissection and mobilization of the adrenal gland.

RESULTS

One patient required conversion to open surgery. The mean operative time and estimated blood loss was 50.4 +/- 19.8 minutes (range 25 to 150) and 76.4 +/- 23.5 mL (range 20 to 300), respectively. A systolic blood pressure greater than 200 mm Hg or less than 80 mm Hg was observed in 6 and 3 patients, respectively. Moreover, an upward fluctuation of systolic blood pressure (20 mm Hg or greater) was recorded during laparoscopic manipulation in 21 patients (37.5%), and in 8 of them, it was 50 mm Hg or greater. The mean diameter of the excised masses was 4.6 +/- 1.7 cm (range 1.5 to 10.0). The mean hospital stay was 5.2 +/- 1.3 days (range 3 to 9). No patients had a major complication and none died. During the follow-up period of 5 months to 3 years, 36 patients recovered normal blood pressure without antihypertensive drugs. No tumor recurrences developed.

CONCLUSIONS

Retroperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomy without previous control of the adrenal vein is effective and safe for ablation of pheochromocytoma. For experienced surgeons, the tumors larger than 6 cm in diameter can also be removed using the retroperitoneal endoscopic approach.

Case Report: Retroperitoneoscopic Partial Adrenalectomy for Large Adrenocortical Oncocytoma

A young woman had mild hypertension, and on evaluation, a large tumor arising from the right adrenal gland was found. The tumor was hormonally inactive. Retroperitoneoscopic partial adrenalectomy was carried out. The histopathology report described adrenocortical oncocytoma.

Laparoscopic surgery and corticoadrenalomas

BACKGROUND

Nowadays, laparoscopic adrenalectomy is the "gold standard" procedure for the treatment of benign lesions. However, the situation is not so clearcut when the issue is laparoscopic excision of malignant adrenal tumors. We present our results of laparoscopic adrenalectomy for treating malignant tumors over the past decade.

METHODS

Between October 1995 and June 2004, 131 consecutive laparoscopic adrenalectomies were performed on 120 patients (11 synchronous bilateral procedures). All patients underwent a standardized investigation protocol during their workup for surgery.

RESULTS

There were only two conversions to laparotomy (1.6%). Complications that occurred during the procedure were limited to six patients (5%). Postoperative 30-days mortality was nil. Postoperative complications occurred in five patients (4.7%) during the first 30 days of recovery. The median hospital stay for all patients was 2.5 days (range = 2-10 days). Twelve patients (9%) had a malignant tumor: nine corticoadrenalomas, one pleomorphic sarcoma, one metastatic deposit from a previously excised colonic cancer, and one malignant pheochromocytoma. At mean followup of 34 months, mean survival time was 42.3 months for corticoadrenalomas that had undergone laparoscopy versus 29.7 months for those who had had a laparotomy. Five of the nine patients are alive and well at a mean of 37 months following surgery. One patient developed pulmonary metastases one year postsurgery; they were responsive to mitotane. Five years later, the same patient had a reoperation for an intra-abdominal retrogastric recurrence of her tumor and continues to do well. Another patient developed pulmonary metastases 22 months following adrenalectomy. Two patients died of metastatic intra-abdominal disease 20 and 7 months postsurgery.

CONCLUSION

When laparoscopic surgery is to used for cancer treatment, caution is the rule to maintain the primary objective of securing a survival rate at least as high as that for open surgery, without increased risk of recurrence. Considering the results presented within this study, it seems that the laparoscopic removal of a corticoadrenaloma should not worsen the prognosis, provided the surgeon respects the primary rules of oncologic resectional surgery. Any surgical conditions that would preclude the strict application of these criteria are contraindications to a laparoscopic procedure.