Open Adrenalectomy: Techniques and Potential Complications

Management of patients with adrenal disease requires knowledge of the relevant anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, and surgical approaches. In this chapter, we discuss indications for open adrenalectomy, including relevant anatomy, the surgical steps of both right and left open adrenalectomy, as well as short-and long-term outcomes. It is important to note that while minimally invasive adrenalectomy is currently considered the standard approach for most benign adrenal pathology, open adrenalectomy is still indicated in select cases including primary adrenal malignancy, large neoplasms, and when a minimally invasive approach cannot be accomplished safely.