[Laparoscopic adrenalectomy. A retrospective comparison with traditional methods]

Abstract

Background: After 3 years from the introduction of laparoscopic adrenalectomy in an endocrine surgery unit the results are retrospectively compared with those achieved by traditional techniques with the aim of comparing the respective advantages.

Methods: During this period 68 laparoscopic adrenalectomies have been performed. The main pre-, intra- e postoperative parameters of the adrenalectomies for benign neoplasm have been examined. Mean follow-up was 51 months (65.3 for open adrenalectomy and 18.8 for laparoscopic).

Results: Statistical studies were homogeneous between the two groups. The laparoscopic adrenalectomy--with the same effectiveness--thanks to less peritoneum and parietal stress, is followed by fewer postoperative complications, faster resumption of biological functions, earlier return to work and better cosmetic results.

Conclusions: On the basis of our personal experience laparoscopic adrenalectomy is to be considered the treatment of choice in the majority of adrenal benign neoplasms.