Our Summary

This study looked at the effectiveness and safety of a procedure called partial adrenalectomy (PA), which is used to treat a type of tumor called pheochromocytoma. The researchers reviewed a range of different studies, including both clinical trials and observational studies, to gather data. They found that PA was very effective, with nearly all patients being cured of their tumors. The rate of complications was also relatively low, around 6%, and very few patients needed additional medication to supplement their hormones after the surgery. However, the rate of the tumor coming back was slightly higher in patients who had a PA compared to those who had their entire adrenal gland removed. Overall, the researchers concluded that PA is as effective and safe as removing the entire adrenal gland, but with a slightly higher risk of the tumor returning. They also found that patients who had PA were less likely to need hormone supplements after the surgery.

FAQs

  1. What is a partial adrenalectomy and what is it used to treat?
  2. How effective and safe is the partial adrenalectomy procedure according to the study?
  3. Is there a higher risk of the tumor returning in patients who undergo partial adrenalectomy compared to those who have their entire adrenal gland removed?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might advise a patient undergoing adrenalectomy to closely follow post-operative care instructions, including taking prescribed medications and attending follow-up appointments to monitor hormone levels and ensure proper healing. It is important to communicate any symptoms or concerns to your healthcare provider promptly. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet can help support recovery and overall well-being.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for adrenalectomy include those with:

  1. Pheochromocytoma: This is a rare tumor that usually forms in the adrenal gland and can cause high blood pressure, sweating, and headaches. Adrenalectomy is the primary treatment for this condition.

  2. Conn’s syndrome: Also known as primary hyperaldosteronism, this condition is caused by an overproduction of aldosterone by the adrenal gland, leading to high blood pressure and low potassium levels. Adrenalectomy may be recommended in cases where medications are not effective in controlling the condition.

  3. Cushing’s syndrome: This condition is caused by excessive cortisol production by the adrenal gland, leading to weight gain, high blood pressure, and other symptoms. Adrenalectomy may be recommended in cases where the underlying cause of the syndrome is a tumor in the adrenal gland.

  4. Adrenal cancer: Adrenalectomy is the primary treatment for adrenal cancer, which is a rare but aggressive form of cancer that originates in the adrenal gland.

  5. Adrenal incidentaloma: This refers to an adrenal tumor that is discovered incidentally during imaging tests for other conditions. Adrenalectomy may be recommended if the tumor is large, causing symptoms, or showing signs of malignancy.

It is important for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider to determine if adrenalectomy is the appropriate treatment option for their specific condition.

Timeline

Before adrenalectomy:

  1. Patient is diagnosed with a tumor, such as pheochromocytoma, on the adrenal gland.
  2. Patient undergoes various tests and imaging studies to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the tumor.
  3. Patient may undergo preoperative preparation, such as medication to stabilize blood pressure and hormone levels.
  4. Surgery is scheduled and patient is informed about the procedure and potential risks.

After adrenalectomy:

  1. Patient undergoes surgery to remove part or all of the adrenal gland.
  2. Patient may experience pain and discomfort in the days following the surgery and will be monitored closely for complications.
  3. Patient may need to take medication to replace hormones that were produced by the adrenal gland.
  4. Patient will have follow-up appointments to monitor recovery and check for any signs of tumor recurrence.
  5. Depending on the type of surgery and the patient’s overall health, recovery time can vary but most patients are able to resume normal activities within a few weeks to months.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the reason for recommending an adrenalectomy in my case?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the surgery?
  3. How experienced are you in performing adrenalectomies?
  4. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that could be considered?
  5. What is the expected recovery time and post-operative care plan?
  6. Will I need to take hormone replacement medication after the surgery?
  7. What is the likelihood of the tumor reoccurring after a partial adrenalectomy compared to a full adrenalectomy?
  8. How will the surgery impact my overall health and quality of life in the long term?
  9. Are there any specific lifestyle changes or precautions I should take after the surgery?
  10. What is the follow-up plan after the surgery to monitor for any potential complications or recurrence of the tumor?

Reference

Authors: Araujo-Castro M, Mínguez Ojeda C, Gómez Dos Santos V, Sanjuanbenito A, Gómez Ramírez J, Mercander E, Hanzu F, Zarain L, Vidal Ó, Muriel García A, Artiles Medina A. Journal: Rev Endocr Metab Disord. 2025 Aug;26(4):625-640. doi: 10.1007/s11154-025-09962-9. Epub 2025 Apr 11. PMID: 40214691