Laparoscopic partial or cortical-sparing adrenalectomy by dividing the adrenal central vein

Background: Laparoscopic partial adrenalectomy without sectioning the adrenal central vein has been described because it is important to preserve this vein in the remnant adrenal gland in order to maintain its function. In this article, we describe our technique for laparoscopic partial or cortical-sparing adrenalectomy by dividing the adrenal central vein. Methods: The procedures were performed in four patients with aldosterone-producing adenomas (APA) and two patients with pheochromocytomas. Results: There were no postoperative complications. At follow-up, adrenal I-131-adosterol scintigrams showed that remnant adrenal function had been preserved in all cases. Conclusion: Since the vascular bed adjacent to the remnant adrenal gland is integral to the preservation of its function, it is important to perform procedures that do not separate the remnant adrenal gland from the retroperitonium space. Because the operative field is clearly visualized on the high-magnification video monitor, this delicate procedure can be performed with a high degree of accuracy via the laparoscopic approach. We consider this operative technique to be useful for selected cases.