Bilateral laparoscopic adrenalectomy for corticotrophin–dependent Cushing's syndrome: a review of the Mayo Clinic experience

BACKGROUND: There has been a rapid shift from open to laparoscopic approaches in adrenal surgery, but the safety and efficacy of bilateral laparoscopic adrenalectomy (BLA) in patients with corticotrophin (ACTH)-dependent Cushing's syndrome continues to be defined. OBJECTIVE: Review outcomes in the largest series of patients reported to date undergoing BLA for ACTH-dependent Cushing's syndrome. DESIGN: Retrospective review study. PATIENTS: Between January of 1995 and October of 2006, BLA was attempted in 68 patients with ACTH-dependent Cushing's syndrome (26 ectopic ACTH syndrome; 42 persistent pituitary-dependent Cushing's syndrome following pituitary surgery). MEASUREMENTS: Review of peri-operative morbidity and mortality, biochemical parameters and patient-reported symptom response from chart review and mailed questionnaire. RESULTS: BLA was successfully completed in 59 of 68 patients (87%); nine (13%) required conversion to open adrenalectomy (OA). Intra-operative complications occurred in three patients (4.4%) (two BLA, one OA), and non-operative complications occurred in 11 (16%) patients (eight BLA, three OA). There were no peri-operative deaths. Median hospitalization was 5.5 days (range, 3-28) and 11.9 days (range, 4-29) for the BLA and OA groups, respectively. In patients with follow-up data available, all achieved biochemical resolution and at least partial clinical resolution of signs and symptoms associated with hypercortisolism. Resolution of hypertension, diabetes and obesity was achieved in 64%, 29% and 35% of patients carrying those diagnoses prior to surgery, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: This study further supports the role of BLA as an effective treatment option for patients with ACTH-dependent Cushing's syndrome.