Posterior Retroperitoneoscopic Adrenalectomy

Minimally invasive adrenalectomy is the surgical standard for the removal of most adrenal tumors. Benign adrenal neoplasms, whether functioning or nonfunctioning, are amenable to removal by laparoscopic techniques with very minimal morbidity and excellent outcomes. The laparoendoscopic posterior approach for adrenalectomy has rapidly grown in popularity in the United States in the past decade, following the initial reports of the simplicity of this approach, as well as excellent outcomes in Europe [1]. More recently, modifications to established procedures have resulted in novel surgical techniques for adrenalectomy, including the application of robotic systems to this approach. Future advances in technology should result in the continued evolution of techniques and refinement of surgical capabilities, with the ultimate goals of enhanced surgeon proficiency and possibly improved patient outcomes.