What is Laparoscopic Adrenalectomy?
An adrenalectomy is a surgical procedure in which one or both of the adrenal glands is removed. The adrenal glands are located above the kidneys and work to regulate various functions in the body, including blood pressure, metabolism, and the immune system.
If tumours develop on the adrenal glands, they may need to be removed. Dr Mosai may also recommend an adrenalectomy procedure in cases where the glands produce too much of a certain hormone.
How does the procedure work?
During a laparoscopic adrenalectomy, Dr Mosai will make several very small incisions in your abdomen so that he is able to access the adrenal glands. A small camera will be inserted into an incision so that Dr Mosai can view the abdominal cavity in detail. He will then fill your abdominal cavity with gas so that the adrenal glands can be seen clearly.
With the use of tiny surgical tools, Dr Mosai will disconnect your adrenal glands and remove them from your body.
What does recovery from the procedure involve?
It is quite normal to experience some bloating after the procedure, which is often caused by the gas that is placed in the abdominal cavity. After the procedure is complete, your wounds will be dressed with post-opsites. You may feel some sensitivity at the site of the incisions, but any pain and discomfort will be minimal compared with traditional open surgery.
You will need to stay in hospital for at least two days to make sure your blood pressure is controlled and your hormone level are measured.
You will need to see Dr Mosai for a follow-up consultation around two weeks following surgery. At this point, he will check that you have recovered adequately from the surgery.