INFO & BLOG
About diagnosis, treatment and recovery
What is the adrenal (suprarenal) gland and what does it do?
The adrenal gland is a small hormone-producing organ atop each kidney that helps regulate the body’s hormone balance.
When does an adrenal tumor require surgery?
Surgery may be needed depending on the tumor’s size, whether it secretes hormones and the likelihood of malignancy; the decision is made in a multidisciplinary council.
What advantages does robotic adrenalectomy offer over open surgery?
It offers small incisions, less bleeding, less pain, a short hospital stay and rapid recovery; three-dimensional vision enables vessel-sparing precise dissection.
Does the robot or the surgeon perform the operation?
The operation is always performed by the surgeon, who directs the robotic arms from the console; the robot never acts on its own.
Is the whole gland removed or only the tumor (gland-sparing surgery)?
In suitable, small and benign tumors the healthy part of the gland can be preserved with partial (gland-sparing) surgery; the whole gland is removed when malignancy is suspected.
How is surgery planned in hormone-secreting tumors such as pheochromocytoma?
Pre-operative preparation is done and the tumor is removed in a controlled, safe manner with anesthesia-endocrinology coordination.
Is hormone balance disrupted if one adrenal gland is removed?
Usually the other healthy gland continues to produce the needed hormones; hormone monitoring is planned when necessary.
What is the difference between the transperitoneal and retroperitoneal approaches?
The transperitoneal route provides a wide working space through the abdomen, while the retroperitoneal route reaches the gland directly from behind without entering the abdominal cavity.
How long is recovery and when can I return to work?
Thanks to small incisions recovery is generally fast and return to daily life is possible in a short time; the exact timing is planned per case.
What follow-up is needed after surgery?
The pathology result is reviewed; hormone monitoring and follow-up imaging are planned when needed and your follow-up continues.
How does the process work for international patients?
End-to-end international patient support including visa, transfer, accommodation and medical interpreter is provided; the process begins with file sharing and a free second opinion.