ABSTRACT
Since its first description in 1992 (1), laparoscopic adrenalectomy has proven to be the procedure of choice for the surgical treatment of benign adrenal disease. Multiple reports have consistently demonstrated the benefits of this surgery, including decreased analgesic requirements, less blood loss and shorter hospital stay over the conventional approach (2-8). These results were not surprising considering that the procedure avoids an upper abdominal incision, does not require any reconstruction, benefits from magnification and clarity of view, is commonly performed for benign disease and mostly involves small, easily extractable specimens. Proper application of minimally invasive surgery to the adrenal gland must take into account expertise in both endocrine and laparoscopic surgery. For successful adrenalectomy, one must have knowledge of the anatomy and disease process, maintain meticulous hemostasis and delicately handle tissue.
