Adrenalectomy is an operation in which one or both adrenal glands are removed. The adrenal glands are part of the endocrine system and are located just above the kidneys.

Adrenalectomy can be performed in two ways. In the "open" surgery, the surgeon makes one large surgical cut to remove the gland. With the "laparoscopic" technique, several small incisions are made. The surgeon will discuss which approach is better for you.

For the surgery, you will be placed under general anesthesia (unconscious and pain-free).

The adrenal gland is sent to a pathologist for examination under a microscope.

The adrenal gland is removed when there is known cancer or a growth (mass) that might be cancer.

Sometimes a mass in the adrenal gland is removed because it releases a hormone that can cause harmful side effects. One of the most common tumors is a pheochromocytoma. This tumor can cause very high blood pressure.