Transperitoneal Laparoscopic versus Open Adrenalectomy: A Comparative Study

Kim, Myung Ki; Yu, Hee Chul; Kim, Hyung Jin

Abstract

PURPOSE: Laparoscopic adrenalectomy (LA) is a good option in surgery for adrenal disorders. LA has several advantages compared to open surgery. We compared the efficacy of laparoscopic adrenalectomy to open surgical management of adrenal disorders.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Data from 10 patients with adrenal masses undergoing LA were retrospectively compared with 31 contemporary open procedure about surgical time, blood loss, hospital stay and complications.
RESULTS
The mean surgical time in LA group and open procedure were 120.1 minutes and 213.4 minutes, respectively. The mean blood loss and hospital stay in LA group were decreased as compared to open procedure. The complications occurred in 20% of LA and 29% of open procedure. On comparing LA and open procedure in patients with small adrenal mass (< or =5cm), the mean surgical time, blood loss and hospital stay were also significantly lower in LA group (p<0.01).
CONCLUSIONS
Laparoscopic adrenalectomy for adrenal mass is technically feasible. Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is a safe and efficient technique with a short hospital stay, minimal blood loss and improved cosmesis.