Retroperitoneal Laparoscopic Adrenalectomy in 78 Cases / 中国微创外科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To evaluate the value of retroperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomy for benign adrenal tumors.Methods From March 2003 to May 2008,78 patients with adrenal tumors received retroperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomy in our hospital. During the operation,three trocars were introduced into the lumbar region to establish retroperitoneal space by blunt dissection with the camera. Afterwards,the tumor was removed by using a harmonic scalpel. Results The procedures were successfully completed in all the 78 cases without blood transfusion,the operation time ranged from 45 to 180 min (mean,90 min). Drainage tubes were removed 24 hours after the operation. And the patients were discharged from hospital in 3 to 5 days postoperation. One patient showed regional subcutaneous emphysema after the surgery and was cured spontaneously. The patients were followed up for 3 to 24 months with a mean of 10 months,during which 36 patients achieved normal blood pressure in 3 months,while in the other 7 patients,oral antihypertension drugs were still needed. No patients had recurrent tumor during the follow-up. Conclusions Retroperitoneal laparoscopic can be the first choice for adrenal tumors,as it is safe and effective with minimal invasion,quick recovery,and short postoperative hospital stay.