Adrenal Surgery

The adrenal glands, situated on top of the kidneys, play a crucial role in hormone production and regulation. Adrenal tumors, whether benign or malignant, can affect hormone balance and overall health. 

Adrenal tumors can be categorized as:

Adrenal Adenomas: Benign tumors that typically do not produce hormones and are often discovered incidentally during imaging.

Functioning Adrenal Tumors: Tumors that produce hormones, leading to specific symptoms and imbalances.

Adrenocortical Carcinomas: Rare malignant tumors that can produce hormones and affect adrenal function.

Symptoms of Adrenal Tumors:

Hormone-Producing Tumors: Symptoms may include high blood pressure, weight changes, mood swings, excessive hair growth, and changes in blood sugar levels.

Non-functioning Tumors: Adrenal adenomas may not cause noticeable symptoms unless they are large or cause pressure on surrounding organs.

Diagnosis and Evaluation:

Imaging: Scans like CT, MRI, and PET scans can help visualize the tumor’s location, size, and characteristics.

Hormone Testing: Blood and urine tests can assess hormone levels to determine if the tumor is producing hormones.

Biopsy: In some cases, a biopsy may be recommended to determine if the tumor is benign or malignant.

Treatment Approaches for Adrenal Tumors:

The treatment strategy depends on factors such as tumor type, hormone production, and tumor size:

Observation: Small, non-functioning adenomas that are not causing symptoms may be monitored over time.

Surgery: Surgical removal is often recommended for functioning tumors or larger adenomas that cause symptoms.

Hormone Control: For hormone-producing tumors, medications can be used to control hormone levels and alleviate symptoms.

Chemotherapy and Radiation: These approaches may be considered for malignant adrenal tumors.

Adrenal Tumor Management and Surgery

Adrenalectomy Surgery: Restoring Hormonal Balance

Adrenalectomy surgery is a surgical intervention to remove the affected adrenal gland. This procedure is recommended for patients with functioning adrenal tumors that. produce extra hormones or larger adenomas that cause discomfort. Surgeons utilize newer imaging studies, such as CT and MRI scans, to assist in locating the tumor. This type of surgery is typically low-risk, results in hormonal restoration, and enhances patient health.

Adrenal Cancer Surgery: Targeted Resection for Malignant Tumors

For patients with malignant adrenal tumors, adrenal cancer surgery is the gold standard of care. This procedure focuses on removing cancerous body tissue while protecting surrounding organs. In combination with the surgery, hormone management before and after is important to maintain metabolic balance. Performing adrenal cancer surgery at an early stage significantly minimizes the risk of tumor metastasis and improves recovery outcomes.

Early Recognition of Symptoms of Benign Adrenal Tumors

The process of recognizing symptoms of benign adrenal tumors is useful for early detection and early treatment. Symptoms can include high blood pressure, unplanned weight gain/loss, mood swings, and fluctuating blood sugars. Non-functioning adrenal adenomas may not have symptoms, but larger-sized tumors can put pressure on organ systems. If symptoms present, recognizing signs of benign adrenal tumors early will allow monitoring, evaluation, and intervention from a qualified endocrine specialist