Primary aldosteronism: Practical recommendations for treatment and follow-up / Hiperaldosteronismo primario: recomendaciones prácticas de tratamiento y seguimiento

Primary aldosteronism (PA) is the most common cause of secondary arterial hypertension. For unilateral cases, surgery offers the possibility of cure, with unilateral adrenalectomy being the treatment of choice, whereas bilateral forms of PA are treated mainly with mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRA). The goals of treatment for PA due to either unilateral or bilateral adrenal disease include reversal of the adverse cardiovascular effects of hyperaldosteronism, normalization of serum potassium in patients with hypokalemia, and normalization of blood pressure. The Primary Aldosteronism Surgery Outcome group (PASO) published a study defining clinical and biochemical outcomes based on blood pressure and correction of hypokalemia and aldosterone to renin ratio (ARR) levels for patients undergoing total unilateral adrenalectomy for unilateral PA. In this review, we provide several practical recommendations for the medical and surgical management and follow-up of patients with PA. (AU)

El hiperaldosteronismo primario (HAP) es la causa más frecuente de hipertensión arterial secundaria. Para los casos unilaterales, la cirugía ofrece la posibilidad de curación, siendo la adrenalectomía unilateral el tratamiento de elección, mientras que las formas bilaterales de HAP se tratan principalmente con antagonistas del receptor de mineralocorticoides (ARM). Los objetivos del tratamiento del HAP debido a enfermedad suprarrenal unilateral o bilateral incluyen la reversión de los efectos cardiovasculares adversos del hiperaldosteronismo, la normalización del potasio sérico en pacientes con hipopotasemia y la normalización de la presión arterial. El grupo Primary Aldosteronism Surgery Outcome (PASO) publicó un estudio que define los resultados clínicos y bioquímicos en función de la presión arterial y la corrección de la hipopotasemia y los niveles del cociente aldosterona/renina (ARR) para pacientes sometidos a adrenalectomía unilateral total por HAP unilateral. En esta revisión ofrecemos varias recomendaciones prácticas para el manejo y el seguimiento médico-quirúrgico de los pacientes con HAP. (AU)

Primary aldosteronism: Practical recommendations for treatment and follow-up.

Primary aldosteronism (PA) is the most common cause of secondary arterial hypertension. For unilateral cases, surgery offers the possibility of cure, with unilateral adrenalectomy being the treatment of choice, whereas bilateral forms of PA are treated mainly with mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRA). The goals of treatment for PA due to either unilateral or bilateral adrenal disease include reversal of the adverse cardiovascular effects of hyperaldosteronism, normalization of serum potassium in patients with hypokalemia, and normalization of blood pressure. The Primary Aldosteronism Surgery Outcome group (PASO) published a study defining clinical and biochemical outcomes based on blood pressure and correction of hypokalemia and aldosterone to renin ratio (ARR) levels for patients undergoing total unilateral adrenalectomy for unilateral PA. In this review, we provide several practical recommendations for the medical and surgical management and follow-up of patients with PA.

Influence of obesity and overweight in surgical outcomes of adrenalectomy for primary adrenal disease: A cohort study of 146 cases.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the impact of obesity and overweight on surgical outcomes in a large cohort of patients who underwent adrenalectomy due to benign or malignant primary adrenal disease. METHODS: A retrospective single-center study of patients without history of active extraadrenal malignancy, with adrenal tumors operated on consecutively in our center between January 2010 and December 2022. Obesity was defined as a body mass index (BMI)≥30kg/m2 and overweight as BMI between 25.0 and 30.0kg/m2. RESULTS: Of 146 patients with adrenal tumors who underwent adrenalectomy, 9.6% (n=14) were obese, 54.8% (n=80) overweight and 35.6% (n=52) normal weight. Obese patients had higher diastolic blood pressure (87.6±12.22 vs. 79.3±10.23mmHg, P=0.010) and a higher prevalence of dyslipidemia (57.1% vs. 25.8%, P=0.014) and bilateral tumors (14.3% vs. 3.1%, P=0.044) than non-obese patients. The rates of intraoperative and of postsurgical complications were similar between obese/overweight patients and patients with normal weight. However, a significantly higher rate of postsurgical complications (27.3% vs. 5.7%, P=0.009) and a longer hospital stay (5.4±1.39 vs. 3.5±1.78 days, P=0.007) were observed in patients with obesity than in non-obese patients. In the multivariant analysis, obesity, age, ASA>2 and tumor size were independent risk factors for postoperative complications, with obesity being the most important factor (OR 23.34 [2.23-244.24]). CONCLUSION: Obesity and overweight are common conditions in patients who undergo adrenalectomy. Adrenalectomy is considered a safe procedure in patients with overweight, but it is associated with a higher risk of postsurgical complications and longer hospital stay in obese patients.

Surgical and postsurgical management of abdominal paragangliomas and pheochromocytomas.

PURPOSE: To describe our current protocol for surgical and postsurgical management of abdominal paragangliomas (PGLs) and pheochromocytomas, with a special focus on multidisciplinary management in centres with experience. METHODS: The physicians involved in the management of patients with abdominal PGLs and pheochromocytomas of our hospital reviewed systematically current knowledge on the surgical management of abdominal PGLs and pheochromocytomas. RESULTS: Currently, surgery is considered the treatment of choice for abdominal PGLs and pheochromocytomas. The choice of surgical approach is determined based on the location of the lesion, size, patient́s body habitus and the likelihood of malignancy. Laparoscopic surgery is usually considered the gold standard approach for pheochromocytomas, but open access should be considered in invasive and/or potentially malignant tumours >8-10 cm and for abdominal PGLs. Postsurgical management of pheochromocytomas and PGLs includes close hemodynamic monitoring and treatment of postsurgical complications, the pathological study of the surgical specimen, reassessment of hormonal and/or radiological status and planning of follow-up based on the risk of recurrence and malignancy. CONCLUSION: Surgery represents the treatment of choice of most abdominal PGLs and pheochromocytomas. Optimal postsurgical evaluation, including hemodynamic, pathological, hormonal, and radiological evaluation, should be performed by a multidisciplinary team specializing in PGL/pheochromocytoma management.

Primary bilateral macronodular adrenal hyperplasia: A series of 32 cases and literature review.

Primary bilateral macronodular adrenal hyperplasia (PBMAH) accounts for <2% of cases of Cushing's syndrome. The majority of patients present with no obvious steroid excess it means with autonomous cortisol secretion (ACS). The classic treatment for patients with overt Cushing's syndrome is bilateral adrenalectomy, but unilateral resection of the larger adrenal gland can result in clinical and/or biochemical remission in >90% of cases, especially in cases of ACS. In this article, a series of 32 cases with PBMAH is described. Most of the cases of PBMAH had ACS, except for one case with overt Cushing's syndrome. A study of aberrant receptors was performed in six patients, being negative in three cases, positive in the metoclopramide test in two cases and positive in the metoclopramide test and in the mixed meal test in another patient. The patient with overt Cushing's syndrome was treated with adrenostatic therapy achieving biochemical control, while two patients with ACS underwent unilateral adrenalectomy with resection of the largest adrenal gland, demonstrating hypercortisolism remission and improvement of cardiovascular risk factors after surgery. This article describes a series of 32 cases of PBMAH and offers a comprehensive review of PBMAH.

Manejo quirúrgico y posquirúrgico de paragangliomas abdominales y feocromocitomas / Surgical and postsurgical management of abdominal paragangliomas and pheochromocytomas

Objetivo Describir nuestro protocolo actual para el manejo quirúrgico y posquirúrgico de los paragangliomas abdominales (PGL) y los feocromocitomas, con especial atención en el manejo multidisciplinar en centros con experiencia. Métodos Los facultativos implicados en el tratamiento de pacientes con PGL abdominales y feocromocitomas de nuestro hospital revisaron sistemáticamente la evidencia científica actualmente disponible sobre el tratamiento quirúrgico de los PGL abdominales y feocromocitomas. Resultados La cirugía se considera el tratamiento de primera elección para los PGL abdominales y feocromocitomas. La decisión sobre el tipo de abordaje quirúrgico se basa en la localización y el tamaño de la lesión, la constitución corporal del paciente y la probabilidad estimada de malignidad. La cirugía laparoscópica suele considerarse el abordaje de referencia para los feocromocitomas, pero en los tumores invasivos y/o potencialmente malignos de más de 8-10 cm y en los PGL abdominales debe considerarse el abordaje abierto. El tratamiento posquirúrgico de los feocromocitomas y los PGL incluye una monitorización hemodinámica estrecha, el tratamiento de las complicaciones posoperatorias, el estudio patológico de la muestra quirúrgica, la reevaluación del estado hormonal y/o radiológico y la planificación del seguimiento en función del riesgo de recurrencia y malignidad. Conclusión La cirugía representa el tratamiento de elección de la mayoría de los PGL abdominales y feocromocitomas. La evaluación posoperatoria óptima, que incluye la evaluación hemodinámica, patológica, hormonal y radiológica, debe ser realizada por un equipo multidisciplinar especializado en el tratamiento de PGL/feocromocitomas (AU)

Purpose To describe our current protocol for surgical and postsurgical management of abdominal paragangliomas (PGLs) and pheochromocytomas, with a special focus on multidisciplinary management in centres with experience. Methods The physicians involved in the management of patients with abdominal PGLs and pheochromocytomas of our hospital reviewed systematically current knowledge on the surgical management of abdominal PGLs and pheochromocytomas. Results Currently, surgery is considered the treatment of choice for abdominal PGLs and pheochromocytomas. The choice of surgical approach is determined based on the location of the lesion, size, patient́s body habitus and the likelihood of malignancy. Laparoscopic surgery is usually considered the gold standard approach for pheochromocytomas, but open access should be considered in invasive and/or potentially malignant tumours > 8-10 cm and for abdominal PGLs. Postsurgical management of pheochromocytomas and PGLs includes close hemodynamic monitoring and treatment of postsurgical complications, the pathological study of the surgical specimen, reassessment of hormonal and/or radiological status and planning of follow-up based on the risk of recurrence and malignancy. Conclusion Surgery represents the treatment of choice of most abdominal PGLs and pheochromocytomas. Optimal postsurgical evaluation, including hemodynamic, pathological, hormonal, and radiological evaluation, should be performed by a multidisciplinary team specializing in PGL/pheochromocytoma management (AU)

Manejo anestésico em suprarrenalectomia em criança: relato de caso / Anesthetic management in suprarrenalectomy in children: case report

Aproximadamente 1% dos casos de hipertensão infantil grave é causado por Feocromocitoma. Estes tumores são provenientes das células cromafins da medula adrenal e secretores de catecolaminas. Quando situados em região extra-adrenal são chamados de paragangliomas e quando em região adrenal (maioria dos casos) são chamados de feocromocitoma. Os sintomas mais comuns são sudorese e palpitação. Exames laboratoriais como a dosagem de metanefrinas e normetanefrinas urinárias são usados para diagnóstico e devem ser associados a exames de imagem como a Tomografia computadorizada e Ressonância magnética nuclear, este último o padrão ouro. O tratamento curativo é a ressecção tumoral sendo importante o acompanhamento devido aosriscos de recidiva. Nos casos de neoplasia maligna deve-se realizar tratamento quimioterápico. Testes genéticos são indicados devido à relação com doenças hereditárias. O trabalho descreve um relato de caso que aborda o manejo anestésico em criança do sexo masculino, 2 anos de idade, portador de hipertensão arterial sistêmica de difícil controle desde os 12 meses de vida, submetido à suprarrenalectomia aberta à direita sob anestesia geral balanceada e bloqueio de neuroeixo

Approximately 1% of cases of severe childhood hypertension are caused by Pheochromocytoma. These tumors arise from the chromaffin cells of the adrenal medulla and secrete catecholamines. When located in the extra-adrenal region, they are called paragangliomas; and when in the adrenal region (most cases), they are called pheochromocytomas. The most common symptoms are sweating and palpitation. Laboratory tests such as urinary metanephrines and normetanephrines are used for diagnosis and should be associated with imagingtests such as computed tomography and nuclear magnetic resonance, the latterbeing the gold standard. The curative treatment is tumor resection, and follow-up is important due to the risk of recurrence. In cases of malignant neoplasia, chemotherapy treatment should be performed. Genetic tests are indicated due to the relationship with hereditary diseases. The work describes a case report approaching anesthetic management in a 2 year-old male child with difficult to control systemic arterial hypertension since 12 months of age who underwent right-sided open suprarenalectomy under balanced general anesthesia and neuroaxis block

Surgery of the adrenal metastases.

BACKGROUND: Adrenal metastases are the most common malignant lesions of the adrenal glands and the second most common tumor after adenomas. The location of the primary tumor is described: lung (39%), breast (35%), gastrointestinal tract, among other. Several studies show that surgery improves survival in selected cases. METHOD: Retrospective and single-center observational study of patients operated for adrenal metastasis over a period of 11 years. The characteristics of the disease and surgical results were described. RESULTS: 14 suprarenalectomies were performed. The average age was 65.85 years. The primary tumors described: non-small cell lung carcinoma (42.8%) and clear cell renal carcinoma (14.20%). In 92.8% the injury was unilateral. In 64.2% it was metachronous. An initial laparoscopic approach was performed in 85.71%. The morbidity of our series was 14.28%. The median overall survival was 30 months. Survival was 75% per year, 55.5% at 3 years and 40% at 5 years. CONCLUSIONS: Age, primary location, degree of differentiation, histological type, size greater, laterality, disease-free interval, chemotherapy and surgical technique are not associated with changes in survival. In the presence of a single adrenal mass, surgical evaluation is mandatory and surgery could play a role in patients with metastases in other locations with control of the primary disease.

ANTECEDENTES: Las metástasis suprarrenales son las lesiones malignas más frecuentes de las glándulas suprarrenales. Como localización del tumor primario se encuentran el pulmón (39%), la mama (35%), el riñón y el tracto gastrointestinal, entre otros. La cirugía mejora la supervivencia en casos seleccionados. MÉTODO: Estudio observacional, retrospectivo y unicéntrico de pacientes intervenidos de suprarrenalectomía por metástasis suprarrenal en un periodo de 11 años. Se describen las características de la enfermedad y los resultados quirúrgicos. RESULTADOS: Se realizaron 14 suprarrenalectomías. La media de edad de los pacientes fue de 65.85 años. Los tumores primarios fueron carcinoma no microcítico pulmonar (42.8%) y carcinoma renal de células claras (14.20%). En el 92.8% de los casos fue unilateral y en el 64.2% metacrónica. Se realizó laparoscopia inicial en el 85.71%. La morbilidad fue del 14.28%. La mediana de supervivencia global fue de 30 meses. La supervivencia fue del 75% al año, el 55.5% a los 3 años y el 40% a los 5 años. CONCLUSIONES: La edad, la localización primaria, el grado de diferenciación, el tipo histológico, el tamaño, la lateralidad, el intervalo libre de enfermedad, la quimioterapia y la técnica quirúrgica no se asocian a cambios en la supervivencia. Ante una masa suprarrenal única, la valoración quirúrgica es mandatoria y la cirugía podría ocupar un papel en pacientes con metástasis en otras localizaciones con control de la enfermedad primaria.

Suprarrenalectomía retroperitoneoscópica por puerto único: experiencia inicial y estandarización de la técnica / Single-port retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy: Initial experience and standardization of the technique

Introducción y objetivo: El abordaje mediante cirugía mínimamente invasiva de la patología de la glándula suprarrenal es el más extendido hoy en día, en donde la retroperitoneoscopia ocupa un lugar a tener muy en cuenta; sin embargo, la evolución de estas técnicas hacia abordajes todavía menos invasivos a través de puerto único es anecdótica.La finalidad de este trabajo es describir nuestra experiencia inicial en cirugía retroperitoneoscópica por puerto único (SPORS) de la glándula suprarrenal centrándonos en los datos perioperatorios y dolor postoperatorio.Material y métodosRecogimos y analizamos los datos demográficos y operatorios de una serie de pacientes tratados mediante suprarrenalectomía mediante SPORS. Todos los procedimientos se realizaron mediante una única incisión subcostal de 3-4cm a través de un puerto multicanal. Se recogen diferentes datos quirúrgicos como tiempo operatorio, sangrado, estancia o presencia de complicaciones. Empleamos la escala visual analógica (EVA) para la valoración del dolor postoperatorio.ResultadosEntre diciembre del 2018 y agosto del 2020, 6 pacientes con diferentes patologías suprarrenales fueron intervenidos en nuestro Departamento de forma consecutiva por el mismo cirujano mediante SPORS. Todas las cirugías se realizaron sin requerir colocación de trocares accesorios o reconversión a cirugía abierta. El tiempo medio de las intervenciones fue de 91,6±16,3 min, con un sangrado <150ml, una estancia media de 35,8±13,3 h y un dolor postoperatorio analizado EVA ≤ 3 (mediana de 0,5). El tamaño medio de las piezas fue de 57,8±18mm. No se reportó ninguna complicación según la escala Clavien-Dindo.

Introduction and objective: The minimally invasive surgical approach to adrenal gland pathology is the most widely used nowadays, and retroperitoneoscopy occupies a relevant place. However, the evolution of these techniques towards even less invasive surgery through single-port access is anecdotal. The aim of this work is to describe our initial experience in single-port retroperitoneoscopic surgery (SPORS) of the adrenal gland focusing on perioperative data and postoperative pain.Material and methodsWe collected and analyzed the demographic and operative data of a series of patients undergoing adrenalectomy through SPORS. All procedures were performed through a single 3-4cm subcostal incision with a multichannel port. Surgical data such as operative time, bleeding, length of stay and presence of complications were collected. We used the visual analog scale (VAS) for postoperative pain assessment.ResultsFrom December 2018 to August 2020, 6 patients with different types of adrenal pathology underwent consecutive surgeries in our Department by the same surgeon using SPORS. All surgeries were performed without requiring accessory trocar placement or reconversion to open surgery. The mean operative time was 91.6±16.3minutes, with <150mL bleeding, mean length of stay of 35.8±13.3hours and postoperative pain of VAS ≤3 (median 0.5). The mean size of specimens was 57.8±18mm. No complications were reported according to the Clavien-Dindo scale. (AU)

Single-port retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy: Initial experience and standardization of the technique.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: The minimally invasive surgical approach to adrenal gland pathology is the most widely used nowadays, and retroperitoneoscopy occupies a relevant place. However, the evolution of these techniques towards even less invasive surgery through single-port access is anecdotal. The aim of this work is to describe our initial experience in single-port retroperitoneoscopic surgery (SPORS) of the adrenal gland focusing on perioperative data and postoperative pain. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We collected and analyzed the demographic and operative data of a series of patients undergoing adrenalectomy through SPORS. All procedures were performed through a single 3-4 cm subcostal incision with a multichannel port. Surgical data such as operative time, bleeding, length of stay and presence of complications were collected. We used the visual analog scale (VAS) for postoperative pain assessment. RESULTS: From December 2018 to August 2020, 6 patients with different types of adrenal pathology underwent consecutive surgeries in our Department by the same surgeon using SPORS. All surgeries were performed without requiring accessory trocar placement or reconversion to open surgery. The mean operative time was 91.6 ±â€¯16.3 min, with <150 mL bleeding, mean length of stay of 35.8 ±â€¯13.3 h and postoperative pain of VAS ≤3 (median 0.5). The mean size of specimens was 57.8 ±â€¯18 mm. No complications were reported according to the Clavien-Dindo scale. CONCLUSIONS: Even in initially adverse cases, SPORS adrenalectomy is a feasible and safe technique with good cosmetic and perioperative results.

[Posterior Retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy in the prone position. Initial experience.] / Suprarrenalectomía retroperitoneoscópica en decúbito prono. Experiencia inicial.

OBJECTIVE: Transperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomy (TLA) is considered the treatment of choice for small and benign adrenal tumors. In the recent years, posterior retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy (PRA) has gained popularity due to its advantages over TLA, presenting a shorter surgical time and a faster recovery without increasing complications. Conversely, a greater learning curve is considered because the use of a different and unusual surgical field. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Our objective is to describe the PRA technique to ass our initial experience evaluating its feasibility, safety and effectiveness in a prospective series of patients. A total of 11 (9 left and 2 right) PRA performed between March 2017 and February 2020 were analyzed. RESULTS: Median age was 55 (36-65) years with a median BMI of 25.69 (20.8-34.5) Kg/m2. 54.55% had ASA≥3. 63.37% of adrenal tumors were hormonally functional. The tumor mean size was 4 cm (0.6-8) and cortical adenoma was the predominant pathological anatomy (72.72%). No pheochromocytoma was operated. Median operative time was 87 minutes (35-125) with an intraoperative bleeding of 50 (0-300) mL. No patient presented intraoperative complications or reconversion. Median length of stay was 1 (1-6) days. Only one patient presented postoperative complications. CONCLUSION: The PRA is feasible, reproducible and safe, even during the initial learning curve, presenting a clear early recovery with a shorter surgical time.

OBJETIVO: La suprarrenalectomía laparoscópica transperitoneal (SLT) se considera el tratamiento de elección de los tumores suprarrenales benignos y de pequeño tamaño. En los últimos años el acceso retroperitoneoscópico en decúbito prono (SRP) ha ganado popularidad por las ventajas que ofrece con respecto a la SLT, al emplear un menor tiempo quirúrgico y obtener una recuperación más rápida sin aumentar las complicaciones, a expensas de una curva de aprendizaje dificultada por emplear un campo quirúrgico diferente al habitual.MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Nuestro objetivo es describir la técnica quirúrgica de SRP y nuestra experiencia inicial evaluando su factibilidad, seguridad y efectividad en una serie prospectiva de pacientes. Se analizaron un total de 11 SRP (9 izquierdas y 2 derechas) realizadas entre marzo de 2017 y febrero de 2020. RESULTADOS: La mediana de edad fue de 55 (36-65) años con un IMC de 25,69 Kg/m2 (20,8-34,5). El 54,55% tenía un ASA≥3. El 63,37% de los tumores suprarrenales fueron hormonalmente funcionantes. El tamaño medio fue de 4 cm (0,6-8), siendo el adenoma cortical la anatomía patológica predominante (72,72%). No se realizó ningún feocromocitoma. La mediana de tiempo quirúrgico fue de 87 minutos (35-125) con un sangrado intraoperatorio de 50mL (0-300). Ningún paciente presentó complicaciones intraoperatorias o reconversión. La mediana de días de ingreso fue de1 (1-6) día. Sólo un paciente presentó complicaciones postoperatorias. CONCLUSIONES: La SRP es factible, reproducible y segura, incluso durante la curva de aprendizaje inicial, presentando una clara recuperación temprana con un tiempo quirúrgico corto.

Single-port retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy: Initial experience and standardization of the technique. / Suprarrenalectomía retroperitoneoscópica por puerto único: experiencia inicial y estandarización de la técnica.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: The minimally invasive surgical approach to adrenal gland pathology is the most widely used nowadays, and retroperitoneoscopy occupies a relevant place. However, the evolution of these techniques towards even less invasive surgery through single-port access is anecdotal. The aim of this work is to describe our initial experience in single-port retroperitoneoscopic surgery (SPORS) of the adrenal gland focusing on perioperative data and postoperative pain. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We collected and analyzed the demographic and operative data of a series of patients undergoing adrenalectomy through SPORS. All procedures were performed through a single 3-4cm subcostal incision with a multichannel port. Surgical data such as operative time, bleeding, length of stay and presence of complications were collected. We used the visual analog scale (VAS) for postoperative pain assessment. RESULTS: From December 2018 to August 2020, 6 patients with different types of adrenal pathology underwent consecutive surgeries in our Department by the same surgeon using SPORS. All surgeries were performed without requiring accessory trocar placement or reconversion to open surgery. The mean operative time was 91.6±16.3minutes, with <150mL bleeding, mean length of stay of 35.8±13.3hours and postoperative pain of VAS ≤3 (median 0.5). The mean size of specimens was 57.8±18mm. No complications were reported according to the Clavien-Dindo scale. CONCLUSIONS: Even in initially adverse cases, SPORS adrenalectomy is a feasible and safe technique with good cosmetic and perioperative results.

Suprarrenalectomía retroperitoneoscópica por vía posterior. Recomendaciones para la implementación de esta técnica / Posterior retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy: recommendations to implement this approach

Introducción: El abordaje retroperitoneoscópico posterior es una técnica poco extendida en España para la suprarrenalectomía a pesar de que, según algunos autores, ofrece ventajas respecto al acceso laparoscópico anterior o lateral. El objetivo del estudio fue identificar aquellas características que permitieran seleccionar los casos más favorables para iniciarse en esta técnica. Métodos: Estudio observacional de una cohorte de 50 pacientes intervenidos mediante suprarrenalectomía retroperitoneoscópica posterior (SRP) en un único centro. Se evaluó: sexo, edad e índice de masa corporal (IMC), tiempo operatorio, lateralidad, tamaño y características anatomopatológicas de las lesiones, tasa de conversión, complicaciones y estancia hospitalaria. Resultados: Se intervinieron 25 (50%) mujeres y 25 (50%) hombres con un tiempo operatorio mediano de 80 minutos (45-180). Se observó un tiempo operatorio significativamente menor en mujeres (p = 0,002) y en adenomas (p = 0,002). En cambio, no se observó correlación entre el tiempo quirúrgico e IMC, lateralidad o tamaño de la lesión. No hubo ningún caso de conversión. Las complicaciones fueron del 14% y la mayoría fueron leves, según la Escala de Clavien Dindo (i). La estancia hospitalaria mediana fue de dos días. Conclusiones: La suprarrenalectomía retroperitoneoscópica por vía posterior es una técnica segura, reproducible y con muy buenos resultados. Los casos más favorables para iniciar la implantación de este abordaje son mujeres con adenomas suprarrenales. (AU)

Introduction: The posterior retroperitoneoscopic approach (PRA) is seldom used in our country to perform adrenalectomies, although it offers possible advantages over laparoscopic anterior or lateral access, according to some authors. The aim of this study was to identify those features that determine the most suitable cases to start the implementation of this technique. Methods: A prospective observational study was performed with a 50 patients cohort. All the cases were operated using the PRA. Sex, age, body mass index (BMI), operative time, left or right side, size and anatomopathological characteristics of the lesion, conversion rates, complications and hospital stay were analyzed. Results: 25 (50%) women and 25 (50%) men underwent surgery, with a median operative time of 80 minutes (45-180). A significantly shorter operative time (p = 0.002) was observed in women and in adenomas (p = 0.002). However, no correlation was observed between surgical time and BMI, lesion side or lesion size. There were no conversions. The complication rate was 14%, and most of the complications were grade i in Clavien Dindo's Scale. Median hospital stay was two days. Conclusions: Retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy by posterior approach is a safe and reproducible procedure, with very good outcomes. The most suitable cases to implement this technique would be female patients with adrenal adenomas. (AU)

Posterior retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy: recommendations to implement this approach. / Suprarrenalectomía retroperitoneoscópica por vía posterior. Recomendaciones para la implementación de esta técnica.

INTRODUCTION: The posterior retroperitoneoscopic approach (PRA) is seldom used in our country to perform adrenalectomies, although it offers possible advantages over laparoscopic anterior or lateral access, according to some authors. The aim of this study was to identify those features that determine the most suitable cases to start the implementation of this technique. METHODS: A prospective observational study was performed with a 50 patients cohort. All the cases were operated using the PRA. Sex, age, body mass index (BMI), operative time, left or right side, size and anatomopathological characteristics of the lesion, conversion rates, complications and hospital stay were analyzed. RESULTS: 25 (50%) women and 25 (50%) men underwent surgery, with a median operative time of 80 minutes (45-180). A significantly shorter operative time (p = 0.002) was observed in women and in adenomas (p = 0.002). However, no correlation was observed between surgical time and BMI, lesion side or lesion size. There were no conversions. The complication rate was 14%, and most of the complications were grade i in Clavien Dindo's Scale. Median hospital stay was two days. CONCLUSIONS: Retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy by posterior approach is a safe and reproducible procedure, with very good outcomes. The most suitable cases to implement this technique would be female patients with adrenal adenomas.

Practical guide on the initial evaluation, follow-up, and treatment of adrenal incidentalomas Adrenal Diseases Group of the Spanish Society of Endocrinology and Nutrition. / Guía práctica sobre la evaluación inicial, seguimiento y tratamiento de los incidentalomas adrenales. Grupo de patología adrenal de la Sociedad Española de Endocrinología y Nutrición.

Initial evaluation of adrenal incidentalomas should be aimed at ruling out malignancy and functionality. For this, a detailed clinical history should be taken, and an adequate radiographic assessment and a complete blood chemistry and hormone study should be performed. The most controversial condition, because of the lack of consensus in its definition, is autonomous cortisol secretion. Our recommendation is that, except when cortisol levels <1.8µg/dL in the dexamethasone suppression test rule out diagnosis and levels ≥5µg/dL establish the presence of autonomous cortisol secretion, diagnosis should be based on a combined definition of dexamethasone suppression test ≥3µg/dL and at least one of the following: elevated urinary free cortisol, ACTH level <10 pg/mL, or elevated nocturnal cortisol (in serum and/or saliva). During follow-up, dexamethasone suppression test should be repeated, usually every year, on an individual basis depending on the results of prior tests and the presence of comorbidities potentially related to hypercortisolism. The initial radiographic test of choice for characterization of adrenal incidentalomas is a computed tomography scan without contrast, but there is no unanimous agreement on subsequent monitoring. Our general recommendation is a repeat imaging test 6-12 months after diagnosis (based on the radiographic characteristics of the lesion). If the lesion remains stable and there are no indeterminate characteristics, no additional radiographic studies would be needed. We think that patients with autonomous cortisol secretion with comorbidities potentially related to hypercortisolism, particularly if they are young and there is a poor control, may benefit from unilateral adrenalectomy. The indication for unilateral adrenalectomy is clear in patients with overt hormonal syndromes or suspected malignancy. In conclusion, adrenal incidentalomas require a comprehensive evaluation that takes into account the possible clinical signs and comorbidities related to hormonal syndromes or malignancy; a complete hormone profile (taking into account the conditions that may lead to falsely positive and negative results); and an adequate radiographic study. Monitoring and/or treatment will be decided based on the results of the initial evaluation.

Adenoma corticoadrenal, presentándose como un incidentaloma: presentación de un caso y revisión de la literatura / Adrenocortical adenoma, presenting as an incidentaloma: case report and literature review

Resumen Objetivo: Presentamos un caso clínico con diagnóstico de incidentaloma adrenal no funcionante asintomático y analizamos las implicaciones clínicas y el abordaje realizado. Caso clínico: Se reporta el caso de un masculino de 53 años, asintomático, con hallazgo ecográfico accidental de imagen hipoecoica de contornos bien definidos en la glándula suprarrenal derecha que presentó incremento en su tamaño. Su estudio hormonal fue negativo para hiperfunción adrenal. Resultados: Se realizó suprarrenalectomía laparoscópica con técnica de 4 trocares con resección completa de la lesión. El paciente presentó buena evolución posquirúrgica. El estudio anatomopatológico concluyó el diagnóstico de adenoma corticoadrenal no funcionante. Conclusión: Ante el hallazgo de una masa adrenal mayor de 1 cm corresponde realizar una identificación hormonal y una evaluación del riesgo de malignidad en los pacientes, los cuales, junto con parámetros imagenológicos y los síntomas presentados, permitirán definir las complicaciones en el manejo y el pronóstico del paciente. El diagnóstico diferencial de los adenomas adrenales está basado en la identificación hormonal, el conocimiento radiológico y el grado de compromiso de la lesión. El abordaje laparoscópico es de elección en las lesiones pequeñas y sin sospecha de malignidad.

Objective: We present a clinical case with diagnosis of an asymptomatic nonfunctional adrenal incidentaloma, in which we discuss the clinical implications and the approach. Clinical case: Male patient, 53 years old with an accidental sonographic finding, characterized by a hypoechoic image of well-defined contours in the right adrenal gland of less than 2 cm. The hormonal test showed no adrenal hyperfunctioning. Laparoscopic adrenalectomy technique is performed with 4 trocars with complete excision of the lesion. The patient presented good postoperative evolution. Results: The pathology study showed a well-defined and benign tumor lesion of the adrenal gland, being similar to the fascicular zone and cortical hyperplasia next to it. The diagnosis is a non-functioning adenoma of the adrenal gland derived from the fascicular zone. Conclusion: Given the finding of an adrenal mass greater than 1 cm mass corresponds perform a hormonal identification and risk assessment of malignancy in patients, which with imaging parameters (echogenicity, bilateralism and the adjacent commitment) and symptoms presented allow to identify the complications in the management and prognosis of the patient. The differential diagnosis of adrenal adenomas is based on the hormonal evaluation, radiological knowledge and the commitment of the injury.

Suprarrenalectomía videolaparoscópica transperitoneal: nuestra experiencia / Transperitoneal laparoscopic suprarrenalectomy: our experience

Introducción: El abordaje laparoscópico representa el tratamiento quirúrgico ideal de las enfermedades de las glándulas suprarrenales, debido a las ventajas respecto a las técnicas abiertas en cuanto a seguridad, eficacia, menor morbilidad y pronta recuperación del paciente. Objetivo: Describir nuestros resultados en suprarrenalectomía videolaparoscópica transperitoneal. Pacientes y método: Observacional, descriptivo, retrospectivo, de corte transverso. Se presentan 14 casos de pacientes sometidos a suprarrenalectomía videolaparoscópica en un periodo de 2004 a 2016, con los diagnósticos de feocromocitomas en 8 casos, 2 adenomas con síndrome de Cushing, 1 adenoma no funcionante, 1 mielolipoma, 1 síndrome de Conn y 1 quiste epitelial benigno. Describimos la localización, el tamaño, el tiempo quirúrgico y de hospitalización, la pérdida sanguínea, complicaciones y evolución. Resultados: Fueron 13 mujeres y un varón, con edades comprendidas entre 18 a 55 años (promedio 31,1 años). Hubo equivalencia en cuanto a la localización izquierda y derecha. El tamaño varió de 5 a 10 cm (promedio de 8 cm). La media del tiempo quirúrgico fue de 125 min y de hospitalización de 3,5 días. El sangrado operatorio medio fue de 90 cc (de 30 a 260 cc). Como complicaciones tuvimos un caso de sangrado intraoperatorio a través de uno de los puertos, que se consigue cohibir mediante punto hemostático transparietal y otro caso de neumótorax derecho post punción de catéter de vía venosa central pre operatorio que requirió la colocación de un tubo de drenaje pleural. En ningún caso fue necesaria la conversión a cirugía abierta. No tuvimos óbitos. Conclusiones: En nuestra experiencia la suprarrenalectomía videolaparoscópica trasperitoneal es una técnica segura para el tratamiento de las enfermedades de las glándulas suprarrenales, con 14,3% de complicaciones y ningún óbito, así como estadía hospitalaria corta.

Introduction: The laparoscopic approach for adrenal tumors are the best option because of his safety to perform, poor or nothing morbidity and fast recovery. Objective: to describe the results of transperitoneal laparoscopic suprarrenalectomy (TLS). Patient and method: an observational, retrospective study of 14 patients who underwent TLS between 2004 to 2016. Results: 13 women and 1 man, with a range of age of 18 to 55 years, without difference of tumor localization side. The average size of the tumor was 8 cm and the OR time 125 min in most of the cases. The average of discharge from hospital was 3,5 days. The complications presented were a trocar hemorrhage resolved with a stich and a pneumothorax after yugular punction that required a pleural drainage. Conclusions: The TLS is a safety technique for adrenal tumors, with a complication rate of 14,3% and a short hospital admission.

Outcomes of laparoscopic adrenalectomy Conventional technique versus laparo-endoscopic single-site surgery. / Resultados de la suprarrenalectomía laparoscópica: técnica convencional vs puerto único laparoscópico.

OBJECTIVE: Perform a comparative analysis of the outcomes of conventional laparoscopic adrenalectomy (LC) and the newly introduced laparo-endoscopic single-site surgery (LESS) over ten years. MATERIAL AND METHOD: We retrospectively reviewed the experience of a single surgeon from our medical centre with laparoscopic adrenalectomy, either through LC or LESS, with 75 patients between August 2005 and June 2015. Here we describe: age, sex, size, lateralization, preoperative diagnosis, total operating time, intraoperative bleeding, conversion to open surgery, mean hospital stay, intra- and postoperative complications and histopathology report. We used Fischer's and the Chi-squared tests to compare categorical data and Student's T-test for a comparison of the means with a normal distribution. Statistical significance was determined when p<0.05. RESULTS: LC was performed in 51 patients, and LESS in 24 patients. No statistical significance was found for total operating time (LC: 103.9±13.21min vs. LESS: 101.46±13.65min; p=0.07), estimated bleeding (LC: 258.82±136.92cc vs. LESS: 131,25±36,74cc; p=0.46), intraoperative complications (5 cases in LC, none in LESS; p=0.47), nor for postoperative complications (two in LC vs. one in LESS; p=0.69), as catalogued according to the modified Clavien classification system. We detected a statistical significance difference in the comparisons of the mean hospital stay, which was reduced in LESS (LC: 3.55±0.69 days vs. LESS: 2.21±0.31 days; p=0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Adrenalectomy with LC is the approach of choice for surgical treatment of adrenal pathologies. The LESS technique is safe, improves the cosmetic results, and does not increase mortality if performed by experienced teams.

La suprarrenalectomía laparoscópica, lecciones aprendidas / Learnt lessons from laparoscopic adrenalectomy

Introducción: La suprarrenalectomía laparoscópica se ha convertido en el estándar de tratamiento de las enfermedades benignas funcionales y no funcionales de las glándulas suprarrenales. Este estudio se realizó con el objetivo de evaluar los resultados de la suprarrenalectomía laparoscópica en el Centro Nacional de Cirugía de Mínimo Acceso. Métodos: entre febrero de 2001 y septiembre de 2011, se condujo un estudio observacional descriptivo y prospectivo que incluyó 41 suprarrenalectomías laparoscópicas, realizadas en 36 pacientes. La evaluación diagnóstica preoperatoria se realizó en el Instituto Nacional de Endocrinología, y la prescripción del tratamiento quirúrgico en el Centro Nacional de Cirugía de Mínimo Acceso, basados en un manejo multicéntrico y multidisciplinario. Los parámetros relacionados con el diagnóstico preoperatorio, detalles del procedimiento quirúrgico y cuidados posoperatorios, fueron analizados estadísticamente. Resultados: en 18 pacientes se extirpó la glándula suprarrenal izquierda, en 13 la derecha y en 5 pacientes la exéresis fue bilateral. El 75,6 por ciento de las intervenciones fueron realizadas en pacientes con enfermedad funcionante: hipercortisolismo endógeno (25), hiperaldosteronismo primario (3) y feocromocitoma (3). Las indicaciones por incidentalomas (10) fueron menos frecuentes. La edad promedio de los pacientes fue de 41 años (rango 21-65); el tiempo quirúrgico promedio fue de 210 min (rango 90-360); el sangrado intraoperatorio promedio de 84 mL (rango 10-400); el tamaño medio del tumor 4,6 cm (rango 0,9-8,5). Hubo 2 conversiones estadísticamente correlacionadas con el tamaño del tumor mayor de 5 cm (p= 0,046). No se reportaron complicaciones intraoperatorias y la sepsis de la herida quirúrgica se presentó en 2 pacientes. La mortalidad fue 0. Conclusiones: el enfoque multicéntrico y multidisciplinario, basado en las experiencias en el manejo endocrinológico y el acceso laparoscópico de 2 centros referenciales cubanos, permitió obtener resultados funcionales excelentes, una morbilidad perioperatoria mínima y una mortalidad nula(AU)

Introduction: Laparoscopic adrenalectomy has turned into the standard treatment of functional and non-functional benign diseases in the adrenal glands. This study was aimed at evaluating the results of the laparoscopic adrenalectomy in the National Center of Minimal Access Surgery. Methods: a descriptive, observational and prospective study was conducted from February 2001 through September 2011 in which laparoscopic adrenalectomies performed to 36 patients. The preoperative diagnostic assessment was made at the National Institute of Endocrinology and the surgical treatment was prescribed in the National Center of Minimal Access Surgery, both based on the multicenter and multidisciplinary management. The preoperative diagnosis-related parameters, the surgical procedure details and the postoperative care were all statistically analyzed. Results: left adrenal gland was removed from 18 patients, the right one was removed in 13 and both glands in 5 patients. 75.6 percent of surgeries were performed in patients with functioning disease, endogenous hypercortisolism (25), primary hyperaldosteronism (3) and pheochromocytoma (3). Prescriptions for incidentalomas were less frequent. The mean age of patients was 41 years (range of 21-65); the average surgical time was 210 minutes (range of 90-360); the average intraoperative bleeding was 84mL (range of 10-400); the average size of tumor was 4.6 cm (range of 0.9-8.5). There were two conversions which are statistically correlated with over 5 cm tumors (p= 0.046). Intraoperative complications were unreported whereas surgical wound sepsis affected 2 patients. Mortality was null. Conclusions: the multicenter and multidisciplinary approach, based on experiences in endocrine management and laparoscopic access of two Cuban reference centers, allowed achieving excellent functional results, minimal perioperative morbidity and null mortality(AU)

La suprarrenalectomía laparoscópica, lecciones aprendidas / Learnt lessons from laparoscopic adrenalectomy

Introducción: la suprarrenalectomía laparoscópica se ha convertido en el estándar de tratamiento de las enfermedades benignas funcionales y no funcionales de las glándulas suprarrenales. Este estudio se realizó con el objetivo de evaluar los resultados de la suprarrenalectomía laparoscópica en el Centro Nacional de Cirugía de Mínimo Acceso. Métodos: entre febrero de 2001 y septiembre de 2011, se condujo un estudio observacional descriptivo y prospectivo que incluyó 41 suprarrenalectomías laparoscópicas, realizadas en 36 pacientes. La evaluación diagnóstica preoperatoria se realizó en el Instituto Nacional de Endocrinología, y la prescripción del tratamiento quirúrgico en el Centro Nacional de Cirugía de Mínimo Acceso, basados en un manejo multicéntrico y multidisciplinario. Los parámetros relacionados con el diagnóstico preoperatorio, detalles del procedimiento quirúrgico y cuidados posoperatorios, fueron analizados estadísticamente. Resultados: en 18 pacientes se extirpó la glándula suprarrenal izquierda, en 13 la derecha y en 5 pacientes la exéresis fue bilateral. El 75,6 por ciento de las intervenciones fueron realizadas en pacientes con enfermedad funcionante: hipercortisolismo endógeno (25), hiperaldosteronismo primario (3) y feocromocitoma (3). Las indicaciones por incidentalomas (10) fueron menos frecuentes. La edad promedio de los pacientes fue de 41 años (rango 21-65); el tiempo quirúrgico promedio fue de 210 min (rango 90-360); el sangrado intraoperatorio promedio de 84 mL (rango 10-400); el tamaño medio del tumor 4,6 cm (rango 0,9-8,5). Hubo 2 conversiones estadísticamente correlacionadas con el tamaño del tumor mayor de 5 cm (p= 0,046). No se reportaron complicaciones intraoperatorias y la sepsis de la herida quirúrgica se presentó en 2 pacientes. La mortalidad fue 0...

Introduction: laparoscopic adrenalectomy has turned into the standard treatment of functional and non-functional benign diseases in the adrenal glands. This study was aimed at evaluating the results of the laparoscopic adrenalectomy in the National Center of Minimal Access Surgery. Methods: a descriptive, observational and prospective study was conducted from February 2001 through September 2011 in which laparoscopic adrenalectomies performed to 36 patients. The preoperative diagnostic assessment was made at the National Institute of Endocrinology and the surgical treatment was prescribed in the National Center of Minimal Access Surgery, both based on the multicenter and multidisciplinary management. The preoperative diagnosis-related parameters, the surgical procedure details and the postoperative care were all statistically analyzed. Results: left adrenal gland was removed from 18 patients, the right one was removed in 13 and both glands in 5 patients. 75.6 percent of surgeries were performed in patients with functioning disease, endogenous hypercortisolism (25), primary hyperaldosteronism (3) and pheochromocytoma (3). Prescriptions for incidentalomas were less frequent. The mean age of patients was 41 years (range of 21-65); the average surgical time was 210 minutes (range of 90-360); the average intraoperative bleeding was 84mL (range of 10-400); the average size of tumor was 4.6 cm (range of 0.9-8.5). There were two conversions which are statistically correlated with over 5 cm tumors (p= 0.046). Intraoperative complications were unreported whereas surgical wound sepsis affected 2 patients. Mortality was null...