Partial Laparoscopic Adrenalectomy for Aldosterone-Producing Adenoma: Short- and Long-Term Results

Abstract
Laparoscopic surgery for adrenal gland tumors is the gold standard operative approach now. Adrenal-sparing surgery has special indications. We demonstrated the safety and feasibility of performing adrenal-sparing surgery by means of laparoscopy for aldosterone-producing adenoma (Conn's syndrome).Between 1995 and 1999, seven patients with Conn's syndrome had laparoscopic adrenal-sparing resection of their tumors. These patients were followed up by means of radiology and biochemistry.All seven patients had successful laparoscopic surgery without complications. Most patients were discharged in 2 to 6 days (mean 3 days). At follow-up, the six patients investigated had normal blood pressure. No recurrences have been encountered with a median follow-up of 12 months in these six patients.Adrenal-sparing resection of tumors causing primary hyperaldosteronism is technically feasible by means of laparoscopy. This procedure has the advantage of keeping a greater reserve of normal adrenal tissue and of rapid postoperative recovery.