Adrenal Gland Removal (Adrenalectomy)

Supporting You During Adrenal Gland Surgery

Adrenal gland surgery, also known as adrenalectomy, is a procedure to remove one or both adrenal glands. This surgery is often needed when there is an adrenal tumor or excess production of adrenal hormones. At Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), our experienced Multidisciplinary Adrenal Center team is here to guide you through every step of your care.

What is Adrenalectomy?

An adrenalectomy is a surgery to remove one or both adrenal glands. The body’s two adrenal glands are located at the top of each kidney. The adrenal glands are part of the system that makes hormones, called the endocrine system. Doctors recommend this surgery when you have tumors, either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous), or other conditions affecting the adrenal glands.

While adrenal tumors are uncommon, they can lead to significant symptoms — such as high blood pressure, heart palpitations, and weight gain — due to excess hormone production. The choice of surgical approach depends on the tumor’s size, location, and whether cancer is suspected.

Adrenal Gland Tumors: Benign and Malignant

Adrenal tumors can be either benign or malignant. Benign tumors are not cancerous and do not spread to other parts of the body. Malignant tumors are cancerous and can spread to other areas. Treatment for an adrenal mass or tumor depends on whether it is benign or malignant, its size and if it causes symptoms. Common symptoms include high blood pressure, weight gain and changes in mood or energy levels. Learn more about our thyroid and endocrine cancer services.

Adrenal Tumor Removal: Traditional vs. Laparoscopic or Robotic Surgery

Traditional (open) surgery involves a larger incision to remove the adrenal gland. Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is a minimally invasive surgery that uses smaller incisions and special tools. Benefits of laparoscopic adrenalectomy include less pain, shorter hospital stays and quicker recovery times.

During laparoscopic and robotic adrenalectomy, small incisions are made in the abdomen. A laparoscope, a thin tube with a camera, is inserted to guide the surgeon. The adrenal gland or tumor is then removed through these small incisions. After surgery, you typically recover faster and have less pain than after traditional open surgery.

Post-op care includes  pain management and monitoring for complications like infection or bleeding.