Intermediate
Technical
IVT
adrenalectomy
Pronunciation: ah-DREE-nal-eck-toh-mee
Surgical removal of one or both adrenal glands, requiring distinction between unilateral and bilateral procedures.
Full Definition
The surgical procedure to remove adrenal glands, performed to treat adrenal tumors, hyperaldosteronism, or Cushing's syndrome. The procedure can be unilateral or bilateral, open or laparoscopic. Medical editors must accurately convey the approach and extent of surgery, as bilateral adrenalectomy requires lifelong hormone replacement therapy while unilateral procedures typically preserve adrenal function.
Usage
Usage note: Specify unilateral vs. bilateral and surgical approach (open vs. laparoscopic) in documentation.
In Context
- "Laparoscopic right adrenalectomy was performed for pheochromocytoma." — Surgical summary
- "Bilateral adrenalectomy requires immediate steroid replacement therapy." — Clinical guideline
Also known as
adrenal gland resection
Don't confuse with
nephrectomy
splenectomy