Adrenalectomy

**Adrenalectomy** is a surgical operation to remove one or both adrenal glands. The operation is performed for various hormonal disorders. Depending on the location of the tumor, the adrenal gland is given a certain direction (medial, lateral), which is taken into account by the surgeon during the operation. Hormonal effects last up to 6 months. Surgeries to remove the adrenal glands are possible when there are serious pathologies in this area. The organ may be completely or partially removed. The operation does not require specific preparation of the patient, as well as the postoperative period. The main goal of the intervention is to effectively treat the person suffering from certain hormones or their changes. If the operation went without complications, the patient will feel normal seven days after removal. Typically, the organ is removed from both sides. Sometimes surgeons agree to remove only the affected appendage. This procedure is used relatively rarely. The main goal of manipulation is to eliminate life-threatening conditions. An adrenal tumor becomes a serious threat to human health only within



Adrenalectomy: removal of the adrenal glands for health and treatment

Adrenalectomy, also known as adrenalectomy, adrenal resection, suprarenectomy or epinephrectomy, is a surgical procedure to remove one or both adrenal glands. The adrenal glands are small glands located above the kidneys that play an important role in regulating metabolic processes and producing various hormones.

Adrenalectomy may be performed for a variety of reasons, including the presence of tumors in the adrenal glands, excess hormone production, and to diagnose and treat various conditions and diseases. Let's look at some of the main reasons for having an adrenalectomy.

  1. Adrenal tumors: The adrenal glands can develop tumors, both benign and malignant. An adrenalectomy may be recommended if a tumor is found, especially if it is suspected of being cancerous. Removal of the tumor may be the only or primary treatment for adrenal cancer.

  2. Hormonal disorders: Some diseases can cause the adrenal glands to overproduce hormones. For example, pheochromocytoma is a tumor of the adrenal glands that leads to excessive production of adrenaline and norepinephrine. Adrenalectomy may be recommended to reduce the levels of these hormones and improve the patient's condition.

  3. Adrenal adenoma: Adenomas are benign tumors that can develop in the adrenal glands. If the adenoma causes discomfort, causes hormonal disturbances, or grows in size, the doctor may recommend an adrenalectomy to remove the tumor.

  4. Genetic disorders: Some genetic disorders, such as hereditary cancer syndrome or Werlich-Naun syndrome, may increase the risk of developing adrenal cancer. In some cases, an adrenalectomy may be recommended to prevent cancer from developing or to control its spread.

Adrenalectomy is a major surgical procedure that requires an experienced surgeon and specialized medical equipment. The operation is usually performed under general anesthesia and the adrenal glands are accessed through an incision in the abdomen or back.

After adrenalectomy, patients may require hormone replacement therapy because removal of the adrenal glands reduces or stops the production of some hormones needed for normal body function. This may include hormones such as cortisol, aldosterone and adrenaline.

Like any other surgical procedure, adrenalectomy comes with certain risks and complications. Possible complications include bleeding, infection, damage to surrounding organs and nerves, and the risk of an anaphylactic reaction to the anesthesia. Therefore, it is important to perform adrenalectomy only in specialized clinics with experienced surgeons.

After surgery, patients usually require careful postoperative care and a recovery period. Doctors may order regular exams and tests to monitor hormone levels and evaluate the effectiveness of the procedure.

Overall, adrenalectomy is an important tool in the diagnosis and treatment of adrenal disease. It can help control hormonal imbalances, remove tumors, and prevent the development of cancer. However, the decision to perform adrenalectomy should always be made individually, taking into account the characteristics of each specific case, based on the doctor’s recommendations.

It is important to seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional to obtain detailed information about the indications, contraindications, possible risks and benefits of adrenalectomy in your specific case.