LAPAROSKOPSKO LIJEČENJE FUNKCIONALNO AKTIVNIH TUMORA NADBUBREŽNE ŽLIJEZDE

Summary. Introduction: Laparoscopy is now a widely used method for removal of functioning and non-functioning adrenal tumors. This paper reports our experience in laparoscopic transperitoneal removal of functioning adrenal tumors including pheochromocytoma, Cushing’s disease and aldosteronoma. Methods: Between May 2001 and April 2006, 29 patients under- went laparoscopic adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma. In 37 patients (10 patients with bilateral adrenalectomy) adre- nalectomy was performed for Cushing’s disease, while 28 patients had aldosteronoma. In 2 patients adrenalectomy was performed for virilizing adenoma. Results: All laparoscopic adrenalectomies were finished successfully, and no open surgery was necessary. Major postoperative complications were not observed. Mean hospital stay was 3 days. No patient required blood transfusion. Conclusions: Laparoscopic adrenalectomy for functioning adrenal tumors proved a safe and minimally invasive procedure. Laparoscopic adrenalectomy, in comparison with open surgery, has numerous advantages, including a shorter length of stay, shorter time to return to preoperative level of activity, better cosmetic effect, and decrease in postoperative pain.