Surgical Outcomes of Laparoscopic Adrenalectomy: A 10-Year Single-Center Experience in the Philippines

Abstract

Introduction and Objectives: Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is the standard treatment for adrenal tumors. Described here is the authors’ 10-year experience with laparoscopic adrenalectomy in a single center.

Methods: A retrospective chart review was done on all patients who underwent laparoscopic adrenalectomy from January 2006 to January 2016 at the National Kidney and Transplant Institute. The authors determined the patient demographics (age and gender), tumor characteristics (size, functionality and laterality) and surgical outcomes (operative time, estimated blood loss, conversion to open and complications according to the Clavien-Dindo classification).

Results: A total of 90 patients underwent laparoscopic adrenalectomy. The female to male ratio was 1.4:1. Most tumors were left-sided [48/90 (53%)], with a mean size of 3.0 ± 0.75cm. The operative time was 145 ± 35 minutes. The mean estimated blood loss was 50 ± 100cc. The length of hospital stay was 3.0 ± 1 days. Forty six percent (42/90) of the adrenals were functioning: Hyperaldosteronism (26), Pheochromocytoma (14), and Cushing's syndrome (2). Ninety eight percent (88/90) were benign. There were 2 (2.2%) conversions to open. There were 8 complications (8.89%) (all Dindo-Clavien Class II), all of which were managed conservatively. There was no mortality.

Conclusion: The authors’ experience with laparoscopic adrenalectomy shows that it is safe and effective for adrenal tumors.