Bilateral laparoscopic transperitoneal adrenalectomy in three children.

BACKGROUND

This study focuses on the clinical presentation, surgical technique, and results of bilateral laparoscopic adrenalectomy in three girls aged 6, 13, and 14.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective study included two girls with bilateral tumors (pheochromocytomas in one case, recurrent leiomyosarcomas in the other case) and a girl with micronodular hyperplasia associated with Cushing's syndrome.

RESULTS

Six transperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomies were performed with no conversions. The average operative time was 137 minutes (range 125-148); the mean estimated blood loss was 75 mL; the mean size of the adrenal lesions was 8 cm (range, 0.5-9); and the mean length of hospital stay was 3 days (range, 2-4). Resolution of clinical and biochemical parameters of adrenal hyperfunction was accomplished in the patients with adrenocortical hyperplasia and pheochromocytoma. No tumor recurrence has been so far found in the case of the leiomyosarcomas.

CONCLUSION

Bilateral laparoscopic adrenalectomy can be performed safely and effectively with a shorter hospital stay, minimal blood loss, and excellent functional outcome in the pediatric population.