Adrenalectomy

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Things you need to know

What is Adrenalectomy ?

Why do you need Adrenalectomy ?

Adrenalectomy is indicated for:

Ad renal tumors:
- Pheochromocytoma (10% of adrenal tumors; causes high blood pressure, 1 in 1,000 cases).
- Adrenal cortical carcinoma (rare, 1–2 per million annually).
- Adenomas (benign, may overproduce hormones, 5–10% of CT scans show incidentalomas).
Hormonal disorders:
- Cushing’s syndrome (excess cortisol; often from adenoma).
- Conn’s syndrome (excess aldosterone; causes hypertension, low potassium).
Other conditions:
- Metastatic cancer to adrenal glands (e.g., from lung, breast).
- Bilateral adrenalectomy for ACTH-dependent Cushing’s (e.g., pituitary tumor unresponsive to treatment).
Timing:
- Performed in adults or children, depending on diagnosis; urgency varies (e.g., immediate for malignant tumors).

The procedure aims to remove the affected gland(s), control hormonal imbalances, and treat or prevent cancer spread, often using minimally invasive techniques to reduce recovery time.

Why Do Adrenalectomy Costs Vary in Philippines?

Adrenalectomy Procedure

Before Surgery Evaluation:
- Assessment:
  - Imaging: CT/MRI to locate tumor and assess size (e.g., >4 cm often indicates surgery).
  - Blood/urine tests: Hormone levels (e.g., catecholamines for pheochromocytoma, cortisol for Cushing’s).
  - Blood tests: Blood sugar, clotting profile; electrolyte balance.
- Preparation: Alpha-blockers (pheochromocytoma) for 7–14 days to control blood pressure; steroid replacement planned (bilateral adrenalectomy).
- Consent: Risks, including adrenal insufficiency, are explained.
Surgical Techniques:
- Adrenalectomy:
  - Performed under general anesthesia, lasting 1–3 hours.
  - Approaches:
    - Laparoscopic adrenalectomy: Most common; 3–4 small incisions (5–10 mm) in abdomen; camera and instruments used to remove gland; used for benign tumors <6 cm.
    - Open adrenalectomy: Larger incision (10–20 cm) in abdomen or back; for large tumors (>6 cm), cancer, or adhesions.
    - Robotic adrenalectomy: Similar to laparoscopic but with robotic assistance; offers precision for complex cases.
  - Process:
    - Gland isolated; blood vessels clipped and divided.
    - Tumor/gland removed; sent for biopsy.
    - In bilateral cases, steroid replacement (hydrocortisone) started immediately.
  - Closure: Sutures for laparoscopic (absorbable); sutures/staples for open; drains may be placed.
- Intraoperative Tools:
  - Laparoscope: Visualizes adrenal gland.
  - Harmonic scalpel: Cuts and seals vessels.
  - Endoscopic clips: Controls bleeding.
After Surgery:
- Hospital stay: 2–4 days (laparoscopic); 5–7 days (open).
- Care: Monitor blood pressure, hormone levels; steroids (if bilateral or risk of insufficiency).
- Pain management: Moderate pain for 3–5 days; managed with painkillers (e.g., paracetamol).
- Instructions: Avoid heavy lifting for 4–6 weeks; monitor for adrenal insufficiency symptoms (e.g., fatigue, low BP).

Recovery After Adrenalectomy

Hospital Stay: 2–4 days (laparoscopic); 5–7 days (open).
Post-Surgery Care:
- Pain/Swelling: Moderate pain for 3–5 days; swelling at incision site resolves in 1–2 weeks.
- Activity: Avoid strenuous activity for 4–6 weeks; light activities in 1–2 weeks.
- Incision: Laparoscopic scars (small, 5–10 mm) fade in 3–6 months; open scar (10–20 cm) fades in 6–12 months.
- Hormone management: Steroids (if bilateral) lifelong; taper dose for unilateral if remaining gland compensates.
- Monitoring: Blood pressure, electrolytes, and hormone levels checked at follow-ups.
Follow-Up:
- Visits at 1 week (check healing), 1 month, and 3 months.
- Hormone tests: At 1–3 months to assess adrenal function.

Most resume normal activities in 2–3 weeks (laparoscopic) or 4–6 weeks (open); full recovery takes 4–6 weeks (laparoscopic) or 6–8 weeks (open). Success rate: 95–98% for benign tumors; cancer outcomes depend on stage (5-year survival for adrenal cancer, 40–60%).

Risks and Complications

Surgical Risks:
- Bleeding (2–5%): Hematoma near surgical site; may need reoperation.
- Infection (1–3%): At incision site; treated with antibiotics.
- Anesthesia risks (<1%): Reaction to general anesthesia; rare in healthy patients.
Post-Surgery:
- Adrenal insufficiency (5–10%, unilateral; 100%, bilateral): Fatigue, low BP; managed with steroids.
- Injury to nearby organs (1–2%): Spleen, kidney, or liver; rare with experienced surgeons.
- Hypertension crisis (1–3%, pheochromocytoma): If pre-op blockade inadequate; managed intra-op.
- Seroma (1–3%): Fluid collection; may need aspiration.
Long-Term:
- Recurrence (5–10%, cancer): Adrenal cortical carcinoma may return; needs monitoring.
- Hormonal imbalance (2–5%): If remaining gland underperforms; may need lifelong steroids.

Report fever, severe pain, low BP, or extreme fatigue promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes the need for adrenalectomy?

Adrenal tumors (benign or malignant), hormonal disorders (e.g., Cushing’s, Conn’s), or metastatic cancer.

Can I avoid adrenalectomy?

Yes, if small/non-functional: Monitor with imaging; surgery needed for symptomatic tumors, cancer, or large masses (>4 cm).

Is adrenalectomy painful?

Moderate pain for 3–5 days, managed with medication; discomfort subsides in 1–2 weeks.

How soon can I resume normal activities?

Light activities: 1–2 weeks (laparoscopic), 2–3 weeks (open); full recovery: 4–6 weeks (laparoscopic), 6–8 weeks (open).

Is adrenalectomy covered by insurance in India?

Often covered (medical necessity); confirm with your provider; Ayushman Bharat often subsidizes.

Signs of complications?

Fever, severe pain, low BP, or extreme fatigue.

Will I need steroids after surgery?

Yes, if bilateral; possibly temporary for unilateral if remaining gland doesn’t compensate.

Lifestyle changes post-surgery?

Monitor for adrenal insufficiency, avoid heavy lifting, take steroids (if prescribed), and attend follow-ups.

Conclusion

Looking for Best Hospitals for Adrenalectomy

Note: we are not promoting any hospitals

We do not promote any hospitals. All details are sourced from Google and hospital websites. Please verify independently. Start with your surgery—here’s the list of government, budget, and superspecialty hospitals accredited by the Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and Joint Commission International (JCI)

click on your city and schedule your surgery now done in good hands.

City	Minimum Price (₱)	Maximum Price (₱)
Angeles City
Antipolo
Bacolod
Bacoor
Baguio
Butuan
Cagayan de Oro
Caloocan
Cebu City
Dasmariñas
Davao City
General Santos
General Trias
Iligan
Iloilo City
Las Piñas
Makati
Malolos
Manila
Muntinlupa
Parañaque
Pasay
Pasig
Puerto Princesa
Quezon City
San Fernando
San Jose del Monte
Taguig
Valenzuela
Zamboanga City

Disclaimer

This information is sourced from open platforms and is for general awareness only. Costs may vary based on individual cases. Please consult a qualified doctor for medical advice and explore options within your budget before deciding on the procedure.

What is Adrenalectomy?

Adrenalectomy is a surgical procedure to remove one or both adrenal glands, located above the kidneys, which produce hormones like cortisol, adrenaline, and aldosterone. It is performed to treat adrenal tumors, cancers, or hormonal overproduction disorders. In the Philippines, adrenalectomies are conducted in general surgery, urology, or endocrine surgery departments at hospitals like St. Luke’s Medical Center, Makati Medical Center, The Medical City, and Philippine General Hospital (PGH), offering advanced care at relatively affordable costs. Understanding the procedure, costs, recovery, risks, and frequently asked questions (FAQs) is essential for Filipino patients to make informed decisions.

Why Do You Need Adrenalectomy?

Adrenalectomy is indicated for:

Adrenal Tumors:
- Pheochromocytoma: (10% of adrenal tumors; causes high blood pressure, approximately 1 in 1,000 cases).
- Adrenal Cortical Carcinoma: (Rare, 1–2 per million annually).
- Adenomas: (Benign, may overproduce hormones; 5–10% of CT scans show incidentalomas).
Hormonal Disorders:
- Cushing’s Syndrome: Excess cortisol, often from adenoma.
- Conn’s Syndrome: Excess aldosterone, causing hypertension and low potassium.
Other Conditions:
- Metastatic cancer to adrenal glands (e.g., from lung, breast).
- Bilateral adrenalectomy for ACTH-dependent Cushing’s (e.g., pituitary tumor unresponsive to treatment).
Timing:
- Performed in adults or children, depending on diagnosis; urgency varies (e.g., immediate for malignant tumors).

The procedure aims to remove the affected gland(s), control hormonal imbalances, and treat or prevent cancer spread, often using minimally invasive techniques to reduce recovery time.

Why Do Adrenalectomy Costs Vary in the Philippines?

Costs range from ₱200,000 to ₱700,000, based on:

Procedure Type:
- Laparoscopic adrenalectomy: ₱200,000–₱400,000.
- Open adrenalectomy: ₱300,000–₱600,000.
- Robotic adrenalectomy: ₱400,000–₱700,000 (available in advanced centers like St. Luke’s).
Hospital/Location: Higher costs in Metro Manila hospitals (e.g., St. Luke’s, Makati Medical Center: ₱300,000–₱700,000); lower in public hospitals like PGH (₱100,000–₱200,000, often subsidized by PhilHealth or Z Benefit Package).
Surgeon’s Expertise: Experienced endocrine surgeons or urologists charge higher fees.
Additional Costs: Anesthesia (₱20,000–₱50,000), hospital stay (₱10,000–₱30,000/day), hormone tests (₱10,000–₱20,000), medications (₱10,000–₱30,000).
Insurance: PhilHealth covers part (e.g., ₱30,000–₱100,000 depending on case type); private insurance may cover additional costs for medical necessity. Confirm with your provider.

Adrenalectomy Procedure

Before Surgery Evaluation:

Assessment:
- Imaging: CT/MRI to locate tumor and assess size (e.g., >4 cm often indicates surgery).
- Blood/Urine Tests: Hormone levels (e.g., catecholamines for pheochromocytoma, cortisol for Cushing’s).
- Blood Tests: Blood sugar, clotting profile; electrolyte balance.
Preparation: Alpha-blockers (pheochromocytoma) for 7–14 days to control blood pressure; steroid replacement planned (bilateral adrenalectomy).
Consent: Risks, including adrenal insufficiency, are explained.

Surgical Techniques:

Adrenalectomy:
- Performed under general anesthesia, lasting 1–3 hours.
- Approaches:
  - Laparoscopic Adrenalectomy: Most common; 3–4 small incisions (5–10 mm) in abdomen; camera and instruments used to remove gland; used for benign tumors <6 cm.
  - Open Adrenalectomy: Larger incision (10–20 cm) in abdomen or back; for large tumors (>6 cm), cancer, or adhesions.
  - Robotic Adrenalectomy: Similar to laparoscopic but with robotic assistance; offers precision for complex cases (available in centers like St. Luke’s).
- Process:
  - Gland isolated; blood vessels clipped and divided.
  - Tumor/gland removed; sent for biopsy.
  - In bilateral cases, steroid replacement (hydrocortisone) started immediately.
  - Closure: Sutures for laparoscopic (absorbable); sutures/staples for open; drains may be placed.
Intraoperative Tools:
- Laparoscope: Visualizes adrenal gland.
- Harmonic scalpel: Cuts and seals vessels.
- Endoscopic clips: Controls bleeding.

After Surgery:

Hospital Stay: 2–4 days (laparoscopic); 5–7 days (open).
Care: Monitor blood pressure, hormone levels; steroids (if bilateral or risk of insufficiency).
Pain Management: Moderate pain for 3–5 days; managed with painkillers (e.g., paracetamol).
Instructions: Avoid heavy lifting for 4–6 weeks; monitor for adrenal insufficiency symptoms (e.g., fatigue, low BP).

Recovery After Adrenalectomy

Hospital Stay: 2–4 days (laparoscopic); 5–7 days (open).
Post-Surgery Care:
- Pain/Swelling: Moderate pain for 3–5 days; swelling at incision site resolves in 1–2 weeks.
- Activity: Avoid strenuous activity for 4–6 weeks; light activities in 1–2 weeks.
- Incision: Laparoscopic scars (small, 5–10 mm) fade in 3–6 months; open scar (10–20 cm) fades in 6–12 months.
- Hormone Management: Steroids (if bilateral) lifelong; taper dose for unilateral if remaining gland compensates.
- Monitoring: Blood pressure, electrolytes, and hormone levels checked at follow-ups.
Follow-Up:
- Visits at 1 week (check healing), 1 month, and 3 months.
- Hormone tests: At 1–3 months to assess adrenal function.
Most resume normal activities in 2–3 weeks (laparoscopic) or 4–6 weeks (open); full recovery takes 4–6 weeks (laparoscopic) or 6–8 weeks (open). Success rate: 95–98% for benign tumors; cancer outcomes depend on stage (5-year survival for adrenal cancer, 40–60%).

Risks and Complications

Surgical Risks:
- Bleeding (2–5%): Hematoma near surgical site; may need reoperation.
- Infection (1–3%): At incision site; treated with antibiotics.
- Anesthesia Risks (<1%): Reaction to general anesthesia; rare in healthy patients.
Post-Surgery:
- Adrenal Insufficiency (5–10%, unilateral; 100%, bilateral): Fatigue, low BP; managed with steroids.
- Injury to Nearby Organs (1–2%): Spleen, kidney, or liver; rare with experienced surgeons.
- Hypertension Crisis (1–3%, pheochromocytoma): If pre-op blockade inadequate; managed intra-op.
- Seroma (1–3%): Fluid collection; may need aspiration.
Long-Term:
- Recurrence (5–10%, cancer): Adrenal cortical carcinoma may return; needs monitoring.
- Hormonal Imbalance (2–5%): If remaining gland underperforms; may need lifelong steroids.
Report fever, severe pain, low BP, or extreme fatigue promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes the need for adrenalectomy?
Adrenal tumors (benign or malignant), hormonal disorders (e.g., Cushing’s, Conn’s), or metastatic cancer.

Can I avoid adrenalectomy?
Yes, if small/non-functional: Monitor with imaging; surgery needed for symptomatic tumors, cancer, or large masses (>4 cm).

Is adrenalectomy painful?
Moderate pain for 3–5 days, managed with medication; discomfort subsides in 1–2 weeks.

How soon can I resume normal activities?
Light activities: 1–2 weeks (laparoscopic), 2–3 weeks (open); full recovery: 4–6 weeks (laparoscopic), 6–8 weeks (open).

Is adrenalectomy covered by insurance in the Philippines?
PhilHealth covers part (e.g., ₱30,000–₱100,000); private insurance may cover additional costs for medical necessity. Confirm with your provider.

What are the signs of complications?
Fever, severe pain, low BP, or extreme fatigue require immediate attention.

Will I need steroids after surgery?
Yes, if bilateral; possibly temporary for unilateral if the remaining gland doesn’t compensate.

What lifestyle changes are needed post-surgery?
Monitor for adrenal insufficiency, avoid heavy lifting, take steroids (if prescribed), and attend follow-ups.

Conclusion

Adrenalectomy is a safe and effective procedure to treat adrenal disorders, with high success rates for benign conditions and manageable recovery. The Philippines’ top hospitals (St. Luke’s, Makati Medical Center, PGH) provide expert care at costs ranging from ₱200,000 to ₱700,000, often partially covered by PhilHealth or private insurance. Understanding the procedure, costs, recovery, risks, and FAQs helps patients approach surgery confidently. Consult an endocrine surgeon or urologist for personalized guidance and optimal outcomes.

Looking for Best Hospitals for Adrenalectomy

Note: we are not promoting any hospitals

click on your city and schedule your surgery now done in good hands.

City	Minimum Price (₱)	Maximum Price (₱)
Angeles City	100,000	350,000
Antipolo	100,000	350,000
Bacolod	100,000	350,000
Bacoor	100,000	250,000
Baguio	100,000	350,000
Butuan	100,000	250,000
Cagayan de Oro	100,000	350,000
Caloocan	100,000	250,000
Cebu City	150,000	500,000
Dasmariñas	100,000	250,000
Davao City	150,000	500,000
General Santos	100,000	350,000
General Trias	100,000	250,000
Iligan	100,000	350,000
Iloilo City	100,000	350,000
Las Piñas	100,000	350,000
Makati	150,000	500,000
Malolos	100,000	250,000
Manila	150,000	500,000
Muntinlupa	100,000	350,000
Parañaque	100,000	350,000
Pasay	100,000	350,000
Pasig	150,000	500,000
Puerto Princesa	100,000	350,000
Quezon City	150,000	500,000
San Fernando	100,000	250,000
San Jose del Monte	100,000	250,000
Taguig	150,000	500,000
Valenzuela	100,000	250,000
Zamboanga City	100,000	350,000