Laparoscopic surgery for pheochromocytoma

Attempted Removal of a Large Pheochromocytoma via a Robotic Approach

A pheochromocytoma is a rare tumor of neuroendocrine origin that secretes hormones like epinephrine, norepinephrine, and occasionally dopamine. The most notable symptom of the release of catecholamines is exceedingly high blood pressure. A 45-year-old male presented with a symptomatic pheochromocytoma of large size. He reported experiencing fatigue, orthopnea, dizziness, headache, and chest tightness with deep inspiration for several months. At the time of presentation, he was found to be in hypertensive emergency and was started on alpha-blockade for several days followed by a beta-blockade for a total of 28 days of anti-hypertensive treatment. During his admission, CT imaging showed his tumor to measure at least 14 cm in length, larger than most. After stabilization of the patient, an attempt was made to resect the tumor robotically, but the procedure was converted to an open left adrenalectomy owing to the size of the tumor and the number of tributaries. The patient tolerated the procedure well and, afterward, his blood pressure normalized. He recovered postoperatively with minimal hypotensive episodes and was started on physical therapy. This report reviews the details and management of this case.

Total versus partial adrenalectomy in bilateral pheochromocytoma - a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

In patients with bilateral pheochromocytoma, partial adrenalectomy offers the chance to preserve adrenal function and avoid the need for lifelong steroid supplementation. However, the risk of tumour recurrence raises questions about this procedure. The aim of our study was to compare partial and total adrenalectomy in bilateral pheochromocytoma through a systematic review with meta-analysis.

METHODS

A systematic search was carried out using databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, CENTRAL) and registers of clinical trials (ClinicalTrials.gov, European Trials Register, WHO International Trials Registry Platform). This meta-analysis included studies up to July 2022 without language restrictions. A random effects model meta-analysis was performed to assess the risk of tumor recurrence, steroid dependence and morbidity in these patients.

RESULTS

Twenty-five studies were included in the analysis involving 1444 patients. The relative risk (RR) of loss of adrenal hormone function during follow-up and the need for steroid therapy was 0.32 in patients after partial adrenalectomy: RR 0.32, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 0.26-0.38, P < 0.00001, I2 = 21%. Patients undergoing partial adrenalectomy had a lower odds ratio (OR) for developing acute adrenal crisis: OR 0.3, 95% CI: 0.1-0.91, P=0.03, I2 = 0%. Partial adrenalectomy was associated with a higher risk of recurrence than total adrenalectomy: OR 3.72, 95% CI: 1.54-8.96, P=0.003, I2 = 28%.

CONCLUSION

Partial adrenalectomy for bilateral pheochromocytoma is a treatment that offers a chance of preserving adrenal hormonal function, but is associated with a higher risk of local tumor recurrence. There was no difference for the risk of metastasis and in overall mortality among the group with bilateral pheochromocytomas undergoing total or partial adrenalectomy. This study is in line with PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) and AMSTAR (A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews) Guidelines (10, 11).

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

https://osf.io/zx3se.

Hemodynamic stability during adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma: A case control study of posterior retroperitoneal vs lateral transperitoneal approaches

Hemodynamic stability is one of the most critical aspects of adrenal surgery for pheochromocytoma. Few articles have evaluated the hemodynamic status of patients undergoing posterior retroperitoneal adrenalectomy (PRA) for pheochromocytoma. The aim of this study is to compare the intraoperative hemodynamic parameters between lateral transperitoneal adrenalectomy (TPA) and PRA in this groups of patients.This report describes a retrospective study of 53 pheochromocytoma patients who underwent endoscopic adrenalectomy via transperitoneal (22 patients) or posterior retroperitoneal (31 patients) approaches from January 2008 to March 2015. Data from these patients were compared to investigate the differences in hemodynamic parameters between the 2 approaches.Clinical parameters at presentation were similar between the 2 groups, except for tumor size, which was larger in the TPA group. The PRA group is associated with reduced operative time, blood loss, and length of hospital stay compared to TPA even after adjusting for the tumor size. There was greater BP fluctuations and higher maximum systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP) within the TPA group compared to PRA during univariate analysis. This was however not significant after adjusting for tumor size. There was no difference in the intraoperative inotropic support requirement between the 2 groups.PRA is associated with stable intraoperative hemodynamic status, as well as favorable perioperative outcomes compared to TPA in patients with small pheochromocytomas.

Laparoscopic Adrenalectomy

Purpose

We investigated the following issues regarding laparoscopic adrenalectomy: techniques and advantages, indications in adrenal diseases, and the special case of pheochromocytoma.

Methods

Qualified literature reports were reviewed and integrated with results of our initial experience with laparoscopic adrenalectomy.

Results

Most authors prefer a transperitoneal approach, but some (including ourselves) use the retroperitoneal approach. Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is as effective and safe as traditional surgery, but the associated morbidity was found to be much lower in laparoscopic series. The need for conversion to open surgery does not exceed 5% of all cases. Practically all adrenal masses can be managed by laparoscopy. The only clinical situations where laparoscopy is not recommended as first choice are large adrenal masses (>6 cm) and gross cortical carcinoma, which are related conditions. Laparoscopy is also indicated in pheochromocytoma. No mortality and an elevated hypertension cure rate (75–100%) have been reported. Hypertension and plasma volume contraction must be normalized prior to surgery. Special attention should be paid to possible severe blood pressure variations during surgery. Partial adrenalectomy has been recently proposed for bilateral and familial pheochromocytoma in order to avoid lifelong mineral corticoid replacement therapy.

Conclusions

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy currently represents the first surgical choice for adrenal masses. Only large lesions that are suspected to be malignant should not be electively submitted to this procedure. Pheochromocytoma can be safely and effectively treated with laparoscopic surgery; special care for related symptoms is required.

Salvage Technique for Intraoperative Hemorrhage during Laparoscopic Resection of Large Pheochromocytoma: A Case Report and Literature Review

Aim

We described the use of a hand-port assisted laparoscopic adrenalectomy for excising a large 10 cm vascular left adrenal pheochromocytoma. The useful technical tips and important pitfalls to avoid for a successful outcome are discussed in this article.

Introduction

A 64-year-old man who was investigated for microalbuminuria was found to have a 10-cm left adrenal mass. Blood investigation and imaging confirmed it to be a pheochromocytoma.

Case report

Initial mobilization of the adrenal mass was performed laparoscopically using two 5-mm ports in the epigastric. While dissecting the inferomedial pedicle, the aberrant adrenal vessel was injured and resulted in torrential bleeding. A gelport for hand assistance was inserted as a salvage approach for hemostasis.

Conclusion

Hand-port assisted laparoscopic adrenalectomy is a very practical and easy-to-adopt technique that preserves the minimally invasive surgical advantages in patients with large adrenal masses.

Clinical significance: We advocate the use of hand-assisted laparoscopic adrenalectomy technique for complex pheochromocytoma as an alternative for surgeons with vast experience in laparoscopic adrenalectomy.

How to cite this article

Lee DJK, Tan YP, Singaporewalla RM. Salvage Technique for Intraoperative Hemorrhage during Laparoscopic Resection of Large Pheochromocytoma: A Case Report and Literature Review. World J Endoc Surg 2017;9(1):27-31.

Transperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomy: a review and single-center experience

Background: Laparoscopic adrenalectomy (LA) is the preferred approach to adrenal gland tumors.

Objective: To evaluate the perioperative and functional outcomes of transperitoneal LA.

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed data of all consecutive patients who underwent transperitoneal LA at our institution between April 2000 and December 2011.

Results: Two hundred two patients with mean age of 46 years were included in the study. There were 109 left, 89 right, and 4 bilateral tumors. Preoperative diagnosis included 126 aldosterone-producing adenomas (APA), 33 patients with Cushing syndrome, 19 pheochromocytomas, 20 nonfunctional tumors, and 4 adrenal metastases. Mean tumor size was 3.3 cm (range 0.4-22 cm). Mean operative time was 109 min and estimated blood loss 90 mL for unilateral adrenalectomy; and 195 min and 300 mL for bilateral adrenalectomy. Four patients with pheochromocytoma required transfusion and 2 required conversion to an open approach. Seven intraoperative complications and 18 30-day postoperative complications occurred. These included 5 major complications (Clavien-Dindo grade 3-5). Ninety-seven percent of APA patients had normal serum potassium levels after surgery. Among the patients with functioning endocrine tumors, complete resolution rate from secondary hypertension was significantly higher in the pheochromocytoma group compared with those with APA or Cushing syndrome (82% vs. 48% vs. 68% respectively, p = 0.02). Mean follow up was 35.2 months.

Conclusion: LA is the treatment of choice for most adrenal gland tumors with excellent outcomes and low complication rates. There was a high chance for complete resolution of secondary hypertension after surgery for pheochromocytoma.

Laparoscopic left and right adrenalectomy from an anterior approach - is there any difference? Outcomes in 176 consecutive patients

Introduction

Traditionally, in open surgery, right adrenalectomy is considered technically more demanding than its left-sided counterpart. This belief is supposed to be attributable mainly to different anatomic characteristics of the adrenal veins. Whether this opinion is also correct for laparoscopic adrenalectomy remains elusive.

Aim

To compare the outcomes of left versus right laparoscopic adrenalectomy from an anterior approach.

Material and methods

Retrospective statistical analysis of a prospectively compiled database of consecutive patients undergoing laparoscopic adrenalectomy in a single center with focus on potential differences in the left- versus right-sided procedure in terms of demographic parameters, tumor size, operating time, occurrence of serious intraoperative complications, conversion, length of hospital stay and re-operation rate.

Results

One hundred seventy-six patients underwent elective laparoscopic adrenalectomy – 80 left-sided (45.45%) and 96 right-sided (54.55%). No significant difference was found between the groups in terms of age (54.09 ±11.2 vs. 56.27 ±11.6; p = 0.2), tumor size (3.39 ±1.86 vs. 3.26 ±1.66; p = 0.64), operating time (71.84 ±22.33 vs. 72.06 ±30.99; p = 0.95), occurrence of serious intraoperative complications (7.5% vs. 10.4%; p = 0.5), conversion (1.25% vs. 1.04%; p = 0.9), length of hospital stay (4.52 ±1.30 vs. 4.37 ±1.91; p = 0.55) or reoperation rate (5% vs. 1%; p = 0.11). There was no mortality.

Conclusions

No significant difference was found between the left and right laparoscopic adrenalectomy in terms of operating time, occurrence of serious intraoperative complications, conversion rate or postoperative outcome. Therefore, the opinion that the right-sided procedure is more difficult does not seem to be justified for laparoscopic adrenalectomy from the anterior approach.

Perioperative outcomes and cosmesis analysis of patients undergoing laparoendoscopic single-site adrenalectomy: a comparison of transumbilical, transperitoneal subcostal, and retroperitoneal subcostal approaches

OBJECTIVE

To compare the perioperative outcomes and cosmetic results for transumbilical (TU), transperitoneal subcostal (TS), and retroperitoneal subcostal (RS) laparoendoscopic single-site surgery (LESS) adrenalectomy (AD).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An observational study was conducted of patients who were had undergone LESS-AD using a TU (n = 9), TS (n = 17), or RS (n = 16) approach. The perioperative outcomes and comprehensive cosmetic results were analyzed statistically.

RESULTS

The RS-LESS-AD patients were more likely to have an indication for surgery of a right adrenal mass (TU-LESS-AD 11.1% and TS-LESS-AD 5.9% vs RS-LESS-AD 43.8%, P = .016) or partial AD (0% vs 9% vs 87.5%, P < .001). The TU-LESS-AD procedures had a longer median operative time but significantly lower postoperative pain. The median cosmesis rating for the TU-LESS-AD, TS-LESS-AD, and RS-LESS-AD scar photographs was 10, 8, and 9, respectively (P = .010). Only the cosmesis ratings after the photograph viewing were statistically significant across the surgical approaches (9.5 vs 8 vs 9, P = .048). Assuming equivalent surgical complication risks across the approaches, the preference for future TU-LESS-AD, TS-LESS-AD, RS-LESS-AD was 86%, 6%, and 8%, respectively. As the theoretical risk of TU-LESS-AD increased, the preference for TU-LESS-AD decreased and the preference for TS-LESS-AD and RS-LESS-AD increased.

CONCLUSION

LESS-AD is an effective procedure with a high level of cosmesis using a TU, TS, or RS approach. The surgeon's background, patient characteristics, and cosmetic perception must be carefully considered as a part of the entire clinical picture so that LESS-AD can be used for patients who will derive the most benefit.

Effect of early adrenal vein ligation on blood pressure and catecholeamine fluctuation during laparoscopic adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma

OBJECTIVE

To define whether previous control of the adrenal vein is a crucial procedure in laparoscopic adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma.

METHODS

From January 2000 to December 2010, 114 patients with pheochromocytoma who underwent laparoscopic adrenalectomy through transperitoneal or retroperitoneal approach were included. The patients were divided into 2 groups randomly (group 1: dissection after ligation; group 2: dissection before ligation). Blood samples for the measurement of catecholamines levels using high performance liquid chromatography were taken at the following time points: t1, before anesthesia; t2, during manipulation-extraction of pheochromocytoma; t3, after removal of pheochromocytoma. The blood pressure fluctuation was recorded.

RESULTS

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy was successfully performed on 113 patients with 1 elective open conversion because of dense peritumor adhesions. The operating time ranged from 80 to 150 minutes (mean 108, 102 in group 1, 110 in group 2). Mean blood loss ranged from 20 to 500 mL (mean 120 mL, 110 in group 1, 125 in group 2). The concentrations of plasma catecholamines between the 2 groups had no statistical differences. The blood pressure fluctuation incidence between the 2 groups had no marked difference. But the incidence increased with high functionary grade, and the difference was significant (P = .043).

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that previous control of the adrenal vein was not a determinate factor in dealing with dangerous hypertension during laparoscopic adrenalectomies.

Retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy: comparison of retrograde and antegrade approach among a series of 279 cases

OBJECTIVE

To compare the results of retroperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomy using the antegrade and retrograde approach.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed an analysis of a single-center series of 279 retroperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomies from 1996 to 2010. We compared 172 cases performed with an antegrade approach and 107 with a retrograde approach without dissection of the renal hilum and initial control of the adrenal vein in comparable populations.

RESULTS

The operative time was shorter in the group treated with the retrograde technique, 101±51 vs 140±40 minutes, respectively (Student's t test, P<.001). Blood loss was similar in both groups, 85±224 vs 80±126 mL, respectively (P=NS). Hemodynamic instability was defined as the maximal systolic blood pressure minus the minimal systolic blood pressure divided the maximal systolic blood pressure. It was lower in the group who underwent the retrograde technique (32.7 vs 37.6 mL; Student's t test, P=.005) with a lower perioperative consumption of ephedrine (2.2 vs 5.1 mg, P=.004) and atropine (0.09 vs 0.22 mg, P=.026). No difference was found between the 2 groups in the frequency of perioperative complications or postoperative mortality (1 death in each group of causes unrelated to the surgery).

CONCLUSION

Retroperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomy using a retrograde approach is a safe and reproducible technique. It makes it possible to perform adrenalectomy without dissection of the renal hilum, with a reduction in the operative time. The good hemodynamic stability observed with this technique makes it very attractive for the treatment of pheochromocytoma.

Partial adrenalectomy minimizes the need for long-term hormone replacement in pediatric patients with pheochromocytoma and von Hippel-Lindau syndrome

PURPOSE

Children with von Hippel-Lindau syndrome (VHL) are at an increased risk for developing bilateral pheochromocytomas. In an effort to illustrate the advantage of partial adrenalectomy (PA) over total adrenalectomy in children with VHL, we report the largest single series on PA for pediatric patients with VHL, demonstrating a balance between tumor removal and preservation of adrenocortical function.

METHODS

From 1994 to 2011, a prospectively maintained database was reviewed to evaluate 10 pediatric patients with hereditary pheochromocytoma for PA. Surgery was performed if there was clinical evidence of pheochromocytoma and if normal adrenocortical tissue was evident on preoperative imaging and/or intraoperative ultrasonography. Perioperative data were collected, and patients were observed for postoperative steroid use and tumor recurrence.

RESULTS

Ten pediatric patients with a diagnosis of VHL underwent 18 successful partial adrenalectomies (4 open, 14 laparoscopic). The median tumor size removed was 2.6 cm (range, 1.2-6.5 cm). Over a median follow-up of 7.2 years (range, 2.6-15.8 years), additional tumors in the ipsilateral adrenal gland were found in 2 patients. One patient underwent completion adrenalectomy, and 1 underwent a salvage PA with resection of the ipsilateral lesion. One patient required short-term steroid replacement therapy. At last follow-up, 7 patients had no radiographic or laboratory evidence of pheochromocytoma.

CONCLUSION

At our institution, PA is the preferred form of management for pheochromocytoma in the (VHL) pediatric population. This surgical approach allows for removal of tumor while preserving adrenocortical function and minimizing the adverse effects of long-term steroid replacement on puberty and quality of life.

Retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy in pheochromocytoma

Since the first laparoscopic adrenalectomy, the technique has evolved and it has become the standard of care for many adrenal diseases, including pheochromocytoma. Two laparoscopic accesses to the adrenal have been developed: transperitoneal and retroperitoneal. Retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy may be recommended for the treatment of pheochromocytoma with the same peri-operative outcomes of the transperitoneal approach because it allows direct access to the adrenal glands without increasing the operative risks. Although technically more demanding than the transperitoneal approach, retroperitoneoscopy can shorten the mean operative time, which is critical for cases with pheochromocytoma where minimizing the potential for intra-operative hemodynamic changes is essential. Blood loss and the convalescence time can be also shortened by this approach. There is no absolute indication for either the transperitoneal or retroperitoneal approach; however, the latter procedure may be the best option for patients who have undergone previous abdominal surgery and obese patients. Also, retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy is a good alternative for treating cases with inherited pheochromocytomas, such as multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2A, in which the pheochromocytoma is highly prevalent and frequently occurs bilaterally.

Pheochromocytoma and pregnancy: a rare but dangerous combination

OBJECTIVE

To review the literature on pheochromocytoma in pregnancy (PIP) published during the 11-year period 1998 through 2008.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE data sources from 1998 through 2008 using the search terms "pheochromocytoma" and "pregnancy" and reviewed case reports of PIP published in English.

RESULTS

We identified 54 case reports in MEDLINE data sources, of which 51 reports including 60 cases were reviewed. In comparison with the previous decade, a decreased rate of antenatal diagnosis (from 83% to 70%) and increased maternal and fetal mortality (from 4% to 12% and from 10% to 17%, respectively) were observed. Prematurity was present in 53% of the infants of mothers with antenatally diagnosed pheochromocytoma who gave birth to a live infant. Hypertension was the most common manifestation (88%), with 33% of patients having antepartum hypertensive crises. Urinary catecholamines (64%) and metanephrines (40%) were the most commonly used tests, whereas urinary and plasma metanephrines were the most sensitive tests (100%). Ultrasonography had poor sensitivity (54%), especially during the third trimester. Magnetic resonance imaging was 100% sensitive for adrenal tumors but had only 50% sensitivity for extra-adrenal tumors. A syndromic or familial presentation was seen in 18% of patients, and 32% of patients had bilateral or extra-adrenal tumors.

CONCLUSION

In comparison with the previous decade, a decreased rate of antenatal diagnosis and increased maternal and fetal mortality were observed. Prematurity was a major morbidity associated with PIP. Hypertensive crises were more common during pregnancy. Urinary and plasma metanephrines had the highest sensitivity to detect PIP. Genetic screening should be offered to all pregnant women with pheochromocytoma.

Comparison of two preoperative medical management strategies for laparoscopic resection of pheochromocytoma

OBJECTIVES

To compare the intraoperative and postoperative course of patients undergoing laparoscopic pheochromocytoma resection at 2 institutions (Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic) with differing approaches to preoperative preparation. Patients undergoing adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma typically undergo a preoperative preparation to normalize their blood pressure and intravascular volume. However, no consensus has been reached regarding the best preoperative preparation regimen.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was performed of 50 Mayo Clinic patients and 37 Cleveland Clinic patients who had undergone laparoscopic pheochromocytoma resection. Mayo Clinic predominantly used the long-lasting nonselective alpha(1,2) antagonist phenoxybenzamine, and Cleveland Clinic predominately used selective alpha(1) blockade. Data regarding the intraoperative hemodynamics and postoperative complications were collected.

RESULTS

Almost all patients at Mayo Clinic received phenoxybenzamine (98%). At Cleveland Clinic, the predominant treatment (65%) was selective alpha(1) blockade (doxazosin, terazosin, or prazosin). Intraoperatively, patients at Cleveland Clinic had a greater maximal systolic blood pressure (209 +/- 44 mm Hg versus 187 +/- 30 mm Hg, P = .011) and had received a greater amount of intravenous crystalloid (median 5000, interquartile range 3400-6400, versus median 2977, interquartile range 2000-3139; P <.010) and colloid (median 1000, interquartile range 500-1000, versus median 0, interquartile range 0-0; P <.001). At Mayo Clinic, more patients had received phenylephrine (56.0% versus 27.0%, P = .009). No differences were found in the postoperative surgical outcomes, and the hospital stay was comparable between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Differences in the preoperative preparation and intraoperative management were associated with differences in intraoperative hemodynamics but not with clinically significant outcomes in patients undergoing laparoscopic adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma at 2 large tertiary care centers.

Laparoscopic partial adrenalectomy

The concept of organ- and function-preserving surgery without compromising the primary goal of complete tumour removal has been recently applied in adrenal surgery. This has been accomplished by open surgery in the past. With recent advancements in minimally invasive surgery, partial adrenalectomy by laparoscopic approach has become feasible. The indications, contraindications and worldwide experience have been reviewed for this article.

Laparoscopic resection of extra-adrenal pheochromocytoma--case report and review of the literature in pediatric patients

Surgery for pheochromocytoma differs from that of other tumors owing to the potential release of catecholamines, which may lead to severe intraoperative hemodynamic changes. The present standard of care for resection of adrenal pheochromocytoma has become a laparoscopic approach for surgical excision. Extra-adrenal pheochromocytoma is a very rare entity, especially in the pediatric age group; the utility of the laparoscopic approach is not established in this population. We present a case report of a child with hormonally active extra-adrenal pheochromocytoma originating in the organ of Zuckerkandl that was resected laparoscopically. We found the laparoscopic approach gave excellent exposure, allowing for proper identification of the tumor's origin and its relation to surrounding structures; a complete resection with excellent control of the feeding blood vessels was performed. Herein we present the details of this case and a review of the relevant literature. After our initial experience we can recommend laparoscopic exploration for similar cases of suspected extra-adrenal pheochromocytoma as an appropriate tool to identify extension of the disease and estimate resectability. Proper patient preparation and monitoring are critical for success.

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy for large pheochromocytoma

OBJECTIVES

To determine the feasibility and safety of laparoscopic adrenalectomy for large adrenal pheochromocytomas as although the safety and efficacy for small pheochromocytomas is relatively well documented its use for large pheochromocytomas is controversial because of a perceived increased risk of malignancy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

All pheochromocytomas (>8 cm) managed prospectively using a laparoscopic approach between January 2002 and April 2006 were included. Blood loss, operative duration, complications, and hospital stay were assessed.

RESULTS

In all, 11 consecutive patients underwent laparoscopic adrenalectomy for large pheochromocytomas. The adrenal sizes were 8-15 cm. The mean blood loss was <100 mL, the mean operative duration was 145 min and the mean postoperative stay was 3.6 days. Only one patient had an intraoperative hypertensive crisis, and recovery was uneventful in all.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic transperitoneal, lateral adrenalectomy is safe and efficient means of resecting large (>8 cm) adrenal pheochromocytomas. Although intraoperative catecholamine surges are a cause of major concern, early clipping and dividing of the adrenal vein helps to avoid a catecholamine-induced hypertensive crisis.

Retroperitoneoscopic Adrenalectomy Without Previous Control of Adrenal Vein Is Feasible and Safe for Pheochromocytoma

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of retroperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma and report our experience in adrenalectomy without previous control of the adrenal vein.

METHODS

From January 2000 to December 2005, 56 patients underwent 58 retroperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomy procedures for the treatment of pheochromocytoma. Adequate preoperative antihypertensive preparation was performed. Intraoperative hemodynamic changes were documented in detail. During surgery, the adrenal vein was identified and ligated after dissection and mobilization of the adrenal gland.

RESULTS

One patient required conversion to open surgery. The mean operative time and estimated blood loss was 50.4 +/- 19.8 minutes (range 25 to 150) and 76.4 +/- 23.5 mL (range 20 to 300), respectively. A systolic blood pressure greater than 200 mm Hg or less than 80 mm Hg was observed in 6 and 3 patients, respectively. Moreover, an upward fluctuation of systolic blood pressure (20 mm Hg or greater) was recorded during laparoscopic manipulation in 21 patients (37.5%), and in 8 of them, it was 50 mm Hg or greater. The mean diameter of the excised masses was 4.6 +/- 1.7 cm (range 1.5 to 10.0). The mean hospital stay was 5.2 +/- 1.3 days (range 3 to 9). No patients had a major complication and none died. During the follow-up period of 5 months to 3 years, 36 patients recovered normal blood pressure without antihypertensive drugs. No tumor recurrences developed.

CONCLUSIONS

Retroperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomy without previous control of the adrenal vein is effective and safe for ablation of pheochromocytoma. For experienced surgeons, the tumors larger than 6 cm in diameter can also be removed using the retroperitoneal endoscopic approach.

Laparoscopic and retroperitoneoscopic treatment of pheochromocytomas and retroperitoneal paragangliomas: results of 161 tumors in 126 patients

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic and retroperitoneoscopic excisions of pheochromocytomas and retroperitoneal paragangliomas are challenging surgical procedures because of extensive intraoperative catecholamine release, extreme vascularization, and demanding localization.

MATERIALS

In a prospective clinical study 161 chromaffine neoplasias (134 pheochromocytomas, 27 paragangliomas) were removed endoscopically in 126 patients (67 males, 59 females, age 41.7 +/- 16.4 years; 130 operations). Six patients showed multiple (2-5) tumors. Tumor size ranged from 0.5 to 12 cm (mean 3.5 +/- 1.9 cm). Forty-two patients suffered from hereditary diseases. Twenty-four patients had bilateral adrenal diseases; in 14 patients pheochromocytomas were removed on both sides synchroneously. Ten neoplasias were local or loco-regional recurrences (7 pheochromocytomas, 3 paragangliomas). The laparoscopic route was chosen in 16 operations; the retroperitoneoscopic technique was performed in 128 others. Partial adrenalectomies were performed in 57 operations (in all but one of the patients with bilateral disease). High-dosage alpha-blockade with phenoxybenzamine was routinely used.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Conversion to open surgery occurred once. Perioperative complications were minor (17%); mortality was zero. Operating time for unilateral retroperitoneoscopically removed primary pheochromocytomas (n = 113) was 82 +/- 49 minutes (range: 20-300 minutes) and depended on tumor size (< 3 cm vs. > or = 3 cm; P < 0.05) and gender (P < 0.001), but not on extent of resection (partial vs. total, P = 0.266). Operating time for paragangliomas ranged from 55 to 600 minutes. Median blood loss was 20 ml. Median duration of postoperative hospitalization was 4 days. In 22 of 24 patients with bilateral disease, complete preservation of cortical function was achieved. Locoregional and/or distant metastatic recurrence were found in 5 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic removal of solitary, bilateral, multiple, and recurrent pheochromocytomas and retroperitoneal paragangliomas is feasible and safe, but surgeons need extensive experience in minimally invasive techniques, as well as in endocrine surgery.

Suprarrenalectomía abierta y laparoscópica. Revisión de 10 años

We present a 10 years open adrenalectomy review in our Service and the beginning of laparoscopic adrenalectomy in the last year as a part of the retroperitoneal laparoscopic program at the Hospital Universitario La Paz . The first laparoscopic adrenalectomy was done after 21 retroperitoneal laparoscopic surgeries. Our initial experience has been so good that we have reduced the contraindications for this technique and we have increased the number of laparoscopic surgery cases.

Laparoscopic Adrenal Surgery for Recurrent Tumours in Patients with Hereditary Phaeochromocytoma

OBJECTIVE

To report our experience with Laparoscopic Partial Adrenalectomy (LPA) for recurrent tumours in patients with hereditary phaeochromocytoma.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Five patients with hereditary phaeochromocytoma (4 with von Hippel-Lindau disease and 1 with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia 2B), who had undergone adrenal surgery previously, presented with recurrent adrenal tumours. One patient was pregnant at 20 weeks of gestation. All patients underwent hormonal evaluation, genetic screening and imaging with CT or MRI, metaiodobenzylguanidine (MIBG) scintigraphy.

RESULTS

Of the 7 attempted LPA in five patients, five procedures (71%) were successfully completed and total adrenalectomy was needed on two occasions. The adrenal vein could be spared in all patients except one. There were no intra-operative complications. The adrenal function was adequate in all patients without need for steroid supplementation except one patient who lost both adrenals eventually. There was no correlation between the preservation of adrenal vein and adrenocortical function.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic partial adrenalectomy is feasible, safe and effective in recurrent phaeochromocytoma, despite previous adrenal surgery and is technically easier if the previous approach had been laparoscopic as well. Patients with hereditary phaeochromocytoma are prone for recurrent tumours and may need repeated surgical procedures. Hence, minimally invasive approach is ideal for these patients.

Biochemical diagnosis, localization and management of pheochromocytoma: focus on multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 in relation to other hereditary syndromes and sporadic forms of the tumour

Approximately 50% of patients with multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) 2A or 2B develop pheochromocytoma. These tumours are almost exclusively benign and localized in the adrenal glands. About one-third are bilateral at initial diagnosis. Amongst patients with pheochromocytoma, those with MEN 2A have subtler symptoms compared to those with sporadic disease. Since pheochromocytomas in patients with MEN 2 often secrete catecholamines episodically (but metabolize them continuously to metanephrines), the first choice for biochemical diagnosis is the measurement of free metanephrines in plasma, with urinary fractionated metanephrines being the second choice. In patients with pheochromocytomas that produce exclusively normetanephrine, MEN 2 can be excluded. In patients with biochemically proven MEN 2-related pheochromocytoma, anatomical imaging of the adrenals (with either computerized tomography or magnetic resonance) should be obtained next. Functional imaging with specific ligands (e.g. scintigraphy with [(123)I]-metaiodobenzylguanidine or, if available, positron emission tomography with [(18)F]-fluorodopamine, [(18)F]-dihydroxyphenylalanine, [(11)C]-adrenaline or [(11)C]-hydroxyephedrine) may then be particularly useful in patients with distorted anatomy from previous surgery, in cases of equivocal biochemical data despite high clinical suspicion for a tumour, to rule out multifocal disease, or where there is suspicion of metastatic disease (e.g. tumours larger than 5 cm). Laparoscopic surgery is the treatment of choice and subtotal (cortical-sparing) adrenalectomy is the procedure of choice in bilateral pheochromocytomas.

Laparoscopic surgery for pheochromocytoma

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the feasibility of laparoscopic adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma.

MATERIAL

Between January 1998 and March 2002, 12 patients aged from 19 to 76 (average age 54 years) underwent 13 adrenalectomies (7 right and 6 left, 1 bilateral) using laparoscopic surgery. A specific anti-hypertensive preparation was begun prior to the operation. Peaks of blood pressure were treated by bolus Nicardipine and sinus tachycardia by bolus Esmolol. Catecholamines were dosed at different times during the intervention. As far as surgery was concerned, the adrenalectomies were performed 11 times using the transperitoneal route and twice using the retroperitoneal route. The adrenal vein was found and ligatured before manipulation of the adrenal gland.

RESULTS

Average length of operation was 127 minutes (75 to 195). Average blood loss was 105 ml (0 to 1000). Catecholamines dosed throughout showed a variable increase in plasma rates during peritoneal insufflation and manipulation of the gland. They were responsible for 5 cases of hypertensive bouts and 2 cases of tachycardia which were treated with medication. No surgical conversions were necessary. Average length of hospital stay was 4.18 days (3 to 6); average size of adrenal tumours was 44 mm (30 to 72); average follow-up, 18.4 months.

CONCLUSION

This study showed the feasibility of adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma using laparoscopic surgery, subject to specific medical preparation to reduce the consequences of peroperative bouts of hypertension and sinus tachycardia during peritoneal insufflation and manipulation of the adrenal gland despite initial ligature of the main adrenal vein.

Pheochromocytoma and pregnancy: a case report and review of anesthetic management

PURPOSE

To describe a patient diagnosed with pheochromocytoma in the third trimester of pregnancy and discuss the perioperative and anesthetic management.

CLINICAL FEATURES

A 32-yr-old previously healthy woman (gravida 4, para 2) presented to our tertiary care obstetrical hospital at 34 weeks five days gestation with a history of labile blood pressure and severe hypertension. A week prior to admission she began having episodes of severe headache, dizziness, sweating and nausea. On a routine obstetric visit she was noted to be severely hypertensive with a blood pressure of 200/120 mmHg. Biochemical investigations confirmed the diagnosis of pheochromocytoma and magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a 3 cm x 3 cm right adrenal mass. The patient was invasively monitored in the intensive care unit and treated with alpha- followed by beta-blockade with phenoxybenzamine and metoprolol. A multidisciplinary conference was organized involving endocrinology, anesthesiology, general surgery and obstetrics to determine the most appropriate management of the patient. An uncomplicated laparoscopic adrenalectomy was performed following a period of recovery after an uneventful elective Cesarean delivery.

CONCLUSIONS

The primary goals in the management of pheochromocytoma in pregnancy are early diagnosis, avoidance of a hypertensive crisis during delivery and definitive surgical treatment. Timing of surgical resection will depend on the gestational age at which diagnosis is made. Cesarean section is the preferred mode of delivery when the tumour is still present. This case illustrates that with antenatal diagnosis, advanced methods of tumour localization, adequate preoperative adrenergic blockade and team planning, pheochromocytoma in pregnancy can be treated successfully.

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma: a literature review

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy has become the standard treatment for benign adrenal tumors, providing minimal invasiveness and early recovery. In the case of pheochromocytomas, special attention should be paid perioperatively to prevent excessive hypertension or hypotension. The protocol should include sufficient preoperative medication with alpha 1 blockers, early ligation of the adrenal vein, and minimal handling of the tumor itself. A literature review of 227 laparoscopic adrenalectomies for pheochromocytomas revealed that the perioperative data, including the operative time, blood loss, and hemodynamic status, were similar or slightly better in the laparoscopic procedures as compared to the open procedures, although the convalescence period was significantly shorter in the laparoscopic surgery. The majority of surgeons prefer the transperitoneal approach for pheochromocytomas, although some authors use the retroperitoneal approach successfully. A comparison of the perioperative data from laparoscopic surgeries for pheochromocytomas versus those for other adrenal tumors showed that the former had slightly higher demands to complete the procedure safely. In the treatment of familial pheochromocytoma due to multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 or von Hippel-Lindau disease, a cortical-sparing adrenalectomy can be safely performed laparoscopically. In conclusion, laparoscopic adrenalectomy is the standard for small pheochromocytomas, with a high success rate when the procedure is performed by experienced surgeons.

Surgical management of multi-organ visceral tumors in patients with von Hippel-Lindau disease: a single stage approach

PURPOSE

We assessed surgical feasibility of a 1-stage multi-organ approach for multiple visceral tumors in patients with von Hippel-Lindau disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 14 men and 15 women with von Hippel-Lindau disease underwent simultaneous multi-organ surgery for multiple adrenal, renal and pancreatic tumors at the National Cancer Institute between 1988 and 2001. Perioperative and followup data were analyzed retrospectively. The Mann-Whitney U test was used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

Surgery involving 2 or more organs (mean 2.4 procedures per patient, range 2 to 4) was performed in all patients and concurrent pancreatic operations were performed in 12 (41%). Overall a combined 71 procedures, were performed including 4 cases (13%) treated laparoscopically. Mean +/- SD operative time and estimated blood loss were 464 +/- 142 minutes (range 206 to 830) and 2,798 +/- 4,285 cc (300 to 20,000), respectively. In 16 patients (55%) blood transfusion was administered intraoperatively. At a median followup of 21 months (range 5 to 151) renal tumors recurred in 8 patients (28%), requiring further kidney operations, but no patient had pancreatic or adrenal recurrence. The overall complication rate was 38%, and there was no operative mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

A single stage surgical approach for multi-organ visceral tumors is a viable option for patients with von Hippel-Lindau disease. With careful patient selection and surgical planning combined procedures can be safely performed in 1 operative setting.

Contemporary surgical management of pheochromocytoma

BACKGROUND

The availability of laparoscopic adrenalectomy led us to review our experience and management of adrenal and extraadrenal pheochromocytoma.

METHODS

Seventeen patients undergoing pheochromocytoma resection from January 1997 to August 2001 were categorized as open, laparoscopic, or laparoscopic assisted depending on the surgical approach. Hospital records were reviewed.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference between the groups in patient age, weight or preoperative blockade. Operative times for open, laparoscopic, and laparoscopic assisted adrenalectomies were 202, 218, and 260 minutes, respectively. Estimated blood loss was 562 cc, 187 cc, and 925 cc. The average hospital length of stay was 6.2, 3.0, and 5.8 days.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic removal resulted in longer operative times than open, but less operative blood loss and a shorter hospital stay. The laparoscopic assisted approach did not save time nor did it lead to earlier discharge. Laparoscopic adrenalectomy was comparable to the open approach, and is preferential in tumors less than 6 cm. An open approach remains our choice for larger or extraadrenal tumors.

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma: morbidity compared with adrenalectomy for tumors of other pathology

PURPOSE

We report our experience with laparoscopic adrenalectomy in nine patients with pheochromocytoma and compare the morbidity with that of laparoscopic adrenalectomy for tumors of other pathology.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between January 1997 and November 1999, nine patients underwent laparoscopic surgery for pheochromocytoma via a transperitoneal approach. Of the patients, eight had solitary tumors, and one presented with bilateral pheochromocytomas. The mean size of the tumors was 5.4 cm. The surgical outcomes of the 9 patients were compared with those of 28 patients with adrenal tumors of other pathology (primary aldosteronism in 15 patients, Cushing syndrome in 6, and nonfunctioning adenoma in 7) who underwent transperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomy during the same period. The mean size of the adrenal tumors of other pathology was 2.4 cm.

RESULTS

In eight of the nine patients with pheochromocytoma, laparoscopic adrenalectomy was successful. The procedure was converted to open surgery in the patient with bilateral tumors because of uncontrollable hemorrhage. A hypertensive crisis with the systolic blood pressure >200 mm Hg occurred in 6 patients (67%), but the episode could be controlled by temporary discontinuation of tumor manipulation, administration of drugs, or both. In adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma, the mean operative time was longer (199 v 177 minutes) and the mean estimated blood loss was greater (360 v 54 mL) than for tumors of other pathology. Blood transfusion was given to two patients with pheochromocytoma but to no patient with tumors of other pathology. The patients with adrenal tumors of other pathology could resume normal activity earlier (mean 18 v 26 days) than those with pheochromocytoma.

CONCLUSION

The operation is more difficult and the morbidity is higher in laparoscopic adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma than that for tumors of other pathology. An experienced team of surgeons with advanced laparoscopic skills and anesthesiologists is mandatory. In large tumors, great caution should be taken for intraoperative complications. Nevertheless, laparoscopic adrenalectomy is not contraindicated for pheochromocytoma and can be performed safely.

[Does the size of pheochromocytoma influence the results of its laparoscopic excision?]

BACKGROUND

The tumor size is considered as a limitation for laparoscopic adrenalectomy. The aim of this study was to assess diagnostic characteristics, hemodynamic modifications, and outcome of intraperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomy according to the size of pheochromocytoma.

METHODS

Retrospective study from January 1997 to December 2000. Results were evaluated according to the size of pathologic study (< or > or = 5 cm).

RESULTS

Forty two patients underwent laparoscopic adrenalectomy during this period. Among them, 11 (26%) were operated on for adrenal pheochromocytoma (6 patients < 5 cm and 5 patients > or = 5 cm). Preoperative systolic hypertension was 138 mmHg and 178 mmHg respectively (p = 0.01). Urinary metanephrine/normetanephrine rate was 1.259 and 0.268 respectively (p = 0.08). Capsular tumor effraction rate was 27%. Tumor size was 37% larger than that estimated by CT scan (24% versus 52%). Mean hospital stay was 10 days and 8 days respectively. Morbidity and mortality were 18% and 0%. All these criteria were not statistically significant among the two groups of patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Pheochromocytoma size > or = 5 cm do not modify outcome of patients but is responsible for preferential noradrenaline secretion and stronger hemodynamic modifications. Tumor fragmentation rate and CT scan size underestimation seem important in this group of patients. These characteristics have to be integrated to improve laparoscopic adrenalectomy outcome of patients with pheochromocytoma > or = 5 cm.

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy: alternative or new standard?

Laparoscopy has become a standard approach for adrenalectomy because of its safety, low invasiveness, and less demanding technical nature and the readily removable size of tumor through trocar incision. Comparative studies between open and laparoscopic adrenalectomy document less blood loss, shorter hospital stay, and lower incidence of complication. These reports also show that the patients have less pain, use fewer narcotics postoperatively, and have quicker resumption of oral intake after surgery with the laparoscopic approach. The techniques for laparoscopic adrenalectomy started with the transperitoneal approach and developed into the retroperitoneal approach. Further technical development and recognition yielded three transperitoneal and two retroperitoneal approaches. Characteristics of each approach are discussed. Due to technical developments and experiences in laparoscopic surgery, application of the laparoscopic approach has been expanded to include excision for adrenal cancer and laparoscopic partial adrenalectomy for bilateral pheochromocytoma in certain cases and in selected institutes.