Adrenalectomy
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What is Adrenalectomy?
What to expect before an Adrenalectomy?
In preparation for the adrenalectomy, patients undergo a comprehensive preoperative evaluation. This typically includes a series of blood tests to assess hormone levels and kidney function, as well as imaging studies such as CT or MRI scans to visualize the adrenal glands and identify any abnormalities. Patients should have thorough discussions with their healthcare providers about their medical history, current medications, and any allergies. It is crucial for patients to inform their healthcare team about all medications, especially those that may affect blood clotting, as they may need to be adjusted before surgery.
What to expect during the surgery?
Adrenalectomy is performed under a complete general anesthesia. A cannula (a narrow tube-like instrument) is placed into the abdominal cavity in the upper abdomen. A laparoscope connected to a special camera is inserted through the cannula to help the doctor see the patient’s internal organs on a television screen.
Other cannulas are inserted which allow Dr. Raghunath to delicately separate the adrenal gland from its attachments. Once the adrenal gland has been dissected free, it is placed in a small bag and is then removed through one of the incisions.
What happens after the procedure?
Following the surgery, most patients will spend 1 to 3 days in the hospital for recovery. During this time, healthcare providers will manage pain and monitor vital signs to ensure there are no complications. Patients can expect some discomfort, fatigue, and restrictions on physical activities during the initial recovery phase. Gradually, they will be encouraged to return to their normal activities, but full recovery can take several weeks.
What are the risks associated with Adrenalectomy?
While adrenalectomy is generally safe, it does carry some risks. Potential complications include bleeding, infection at the incision site, damage to surrounding organs such as the kidneys or liver, and complications related to anesthesia. Some patients may experience hormonal imbalances after surgery, necessitating ongoing hormone replacement therapy to manage deficiencies.
FAQ
Patient Information
Recovery typically ranges from a few weeks to several months, depending on the surgical approach and individual healing.
Patients should be alert for symptoms such as severe pain, fever, increased swelling, or unusual changes in urination.
Diagnosis typically involves imaging tests like CT or MRI scans, urine tests, and sometimes a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancer cells.
Many patients can return to work within 2 to 6 weeks, depending on their job’s physical demands.
A balanced diet is recommended, and patients may need to avoid certain foods that affect hormone levels or interact with medications.
