Adrenalectomy (Adrenal Gland Surgery) in NSW, Professor Stan Sidhu
Providing expert adrenal gland surgery in Sydney, the Central Coast, and Coffs Harbour. If you require an adrenalectomy (removal of an adrenal gland) in New South Wales, you want to be in the care of a highly qualified specialist. Professor Stan Sidhu is one of Australia’s leading endocrine surgeons, offering world-class expertise with a compassionate approach. This in-depth service page explains what adrenalectomy involves, which conditions it treats, how the surgery is performed, and what patients can expect before and after the procedure. You’ll also learn why Professor Sidhu’s unparalleled credentials and experience make him the trusted choice for adrenal gland surgery. For personalized advice and to discuss treatment, please contact our clinic to schedule a consultation.
Overview of Adrenalectomy
Adrenalectomy is the surgical removal of the adrenal gland(s), typically performed to treat tumors or disorders of these hormone-producing glands. Every person has two adrenal glands, each perched on top of a kidney deep in the upper abdomen. These glands release hormones that regulate vital functions such as metabolism, blood pressure, and the stress response (adrenaline and cortisol).
When an adrenal gland develops a problem – for instance, a growth producing excessive hormones or a tumor that could be cancerous – removing the gland may be necessary. In many cases, adrenalectomy can be performed with minimally invasive “keyhole” techniques (laparoscopic or robotic surgery), which use small incisions and typically allow faster recovery and less pain than traditional open surgery.
Depending on the situation, a surgeon may remove one adrenal gland (unilateral adrenalectomy) or both (bilateral adrenalectomy) if required. Professor Sidhu will carefully evaluate your condition and determine the safest, most effective approach for your adrenal surgery.
- Adrenal glands are small organs above each kidney that produce essential hormones.
- Adrenalectomy is performed for hormone-producing tumors, suspected cancer, or other adrenal disorders.
- Minimally invasive surgery is preferred when possible for faster recovery.
- Professor Stan Sidhu is a leading expert in adrenal surgery in NSW.
Symptoms That May Indicate Adrenal Problems
- Persistent High Blood Pressure with Low Potassium: Difficulty controlling blood pressure, especially if accompanied by low potassium levels or muscle weakness, can indicate primary hyperaldosteronism (Conn’s syndrome). Patients may experience headaches, fatigue, and excessive thirst or urination. These symptoms warrant evaluation of the adrenal glands.
- Unexplained Weight Gain and Changes in Appearance: Rapid weight gain (especially in the torso), a round face, skin changes like purple stretch marks, diabetes, and weakened muscles are tell-tale signs of Cushing’s syndrome. If these symptoms develop, an adrenal tumor producing cortisol could be the cause.
- Episodes of Panic Symptoms: Sudden attacks of severe headache, palpitations (racing heart), tremors, sweating, pallor, and anxiety, often with very high blood pressure readings, may signal a pheochromocytoma. These adrenaline surges can be misdiagnosed as panic attacks or other issues, but if they recur, an adrenal evaluation is essential.
- Abdominal or Flank Pain and Fullness: A large adrenal tumor (benign or malignant) might cause dull pain or a sense of fullness in the upper abdomen or back. In adrenal cancer, symptoms can also include unexplained fevers, weight loss, or hormonal imbalances.
- Incidental Scan Findings: Sometimes, a patient has no noticeable symptoms, but a CT/MRI scan (done for another reason) reveals a mass on an adrenal gland. While asymptomatic, the size and appearance of the mass (incidentaloma) could make surgery advisable to prevent future problems.
Having these symptoms does not automatically mean you need an adrenalectomy, they are signals that prompt further investigation. Professor Sidhu works closely with endocrinologists (hormone specialists) to determine the cause of symptoms. You will undergo appropriate blood and urine tests to measure hormone levels and imaging studies to visualize the adrenal glands. Only after a careful diagnosis will surgery be recommended. If an adrenal tumor is confirmed and is causing significant symptoms or health risks, removing it can provide relief and prevent serious complications.
Adrenalectomy Surgical Techniques (Laparoscopic vs. Open Surgery)
Laparoscopic Adrenalectomy (Minimally Invasive “Keyhole” Surgery)
This is the preferred approach for most adrenal tumors, especially if they are benign and not too large. The surgery is done under general anesthesia through 3–4 small incisions (usually 5–10 mm each) in the abdomen. A tiny camera (laparoscope) and specialized instruments are inserted to delicately detach and remove the adrenal gland. In some cases, a retroperitoneoscopic approach is used, this involves small incisions in the back, accessing the adrenal gland directly from behind the kidney, which can be advantageous for certain patients.
- Significantly less postoperative pain
- Shorter hospital stay (often just 1 night)
- Faster return to work and normal activities (2–4 weeks)
- Smaller scars
- Outcomes are as effective as open surgery for benign tumors
Professor Sidhu has extensive experience in minimally invasive adrenalectomy and employs advanced techniques (including laparoscopic and retroperitoneal endoscopic methods) to maximize patient comfort and recovery.
Open Adrenalectomy
In certain situations, an open surgery is the safer or necessary choice. This traditional approach involves a single larger incision, typically under the ribcage or in the flank, to directly access the adrenal gland. Open adrenalectomy is usually reserved for adrenal cancers, very large tumors, or complex cases. For malignant tumors, an open operation allows the surgeon to remove the tumor in one piece with a margin of surrounding tissue, which is important to prevent cancer spread. Open surgery may also be needed if there is significant scar tissue from previous surgeries or unusual anatomy.
- Allows removal of large or malignant tumors with a margin
- Hospital stay is typically 3–5 days
- Longer recovery period at home (4–6 weeks)
- May be required if laparoscopic surgery is not possible or safe
Even if a surgery starts laparoscopically, there is a small chance (about 2–3% in Professor Sidhu’s practice) that it may need to be converted to an open procedure for safety. This is uncommon, but Professor Sidhu always prioritizes patient safety and will take the necessary steps to ensure the tumor is removed successfully.
Robotic Surgery
As an advancement of the laparoscopic approach, some adrenalectomies can be performed with robotic assistance, using a surgical robot to enhance precision. Robotic adrenalectomy also uses small incisions and has similar benefits to standard laparoscopy. Professor Sidhu is proficient in the latest minimally invasive technologies, though whether a robot is used or not depends on the specific case and the facilities available. The primary goal in all cases is to remove the adrenal gland safely while minimizing the impact on the patient.
During your consultation, Professor Sidhu will discuss which surgical approach is best for you, considering factors like the size of the adrenal tumor, whether it is producing hormones, the likelihood of cancer, and your overall health and preferences. Rest assured, whether via keyhole surgery or an open incision, you will be in the hands of a surgeon with decades of experience and thousands of successful operations in adrenal and endocrine surgery.
Before, During, and After Adrenal Surgery, What to Expect
Facing any surgery can be daunting, but understanding the process helps put you at ease. Professor Sidhu and his team are committed to guiding you through each step, from pre-operative preparation to post-operative recovery. Here’s what you can expect when you undergo an adrenalectomy with our care:
Before Surgery (Pre-operative Preparation):
- Once the decision for adrenalectomy is made, you will receive detailed instructions on how to prepare. In the weeks leading up to surgery, you may undergo additional tests such as high-resolution scans or specialized endocrine lab tests, to map out the tumor and optimize your condition.
- If your adrenal tumor produces hormones (for example, a pheochromocytoma), you might need to take medications prior to surgery to stabilize those hormone levels (such as blood pressure medications and alpha-blockers for pheochromocytoma). This preparation is crucial to make the surgery as safe as possible.
- You will also have an appointment with the anesthetic team (either at a pre-admission clinic or via phone) to review your medical history.
- Typically, you will be advised to fast (no food or drink) from midnight before a morning surgery (or from early morning for an afternoon surgery).
- On the day of surgery, arrive at the hospital at the instructed time; you’ll be checked in and meet the surgical and anesthesia team who will answer any remaining questions. Professor Sidhu will see you before the operation to review the plan and reassure you. We encourage patients to ask any questions, our goal is that you feel informed and comfortable.
During Surgery:
- Adrenalectomy is performed under general anesthesia, meaning you will be fully asleep and pain-free throughout the operation. The procedure typically takes about 2–3 hours on average, depending on the complexity and whether it’s laparoscopic or open.
- In a laparoscopic adrenalectomy, Professor Sidhu will make small incisions in the abdomen (or side/back for a retroperitoneal approach) and insert a tiny camera and instruments to carefully detach the adrenal gland. The gland is placed in a protective bag and removed through one of the small incisions, which is then closed.
- In an open adrenalectomy, a larger incision is used to directly access and remove the adrenal gland. During the operation, the surgical team will also inspect the surrounding area to ensure there are no unexpected issues and that any bleeding is controlled.
- You might have a small drain placed near the incision to remove any fluid, though this is not always needed.
- Once the adrenal gland is out and all is secure, you are awakened from anesthesia and taken to the recovery room. Throughout the procedure, Professor Sidhu’s focus is on precision and safety, his extensive experience in adrenal surgery means even rare or complex situations are managed with expert care.
After Surgery (Recovery and Post-operative Care):
- When you wake up, you will be in a recovery area where nurses monitor you as the anesthesia wears off. It’s normal to have some pain at the incision sites, but you will receive effective pain relief medication to keep you comfortable. For laparoscopic surgery, pain is usually mild to moderate and often well-controlled with oral medications; open surgery may require stronger pain relief initially.
- You might also experience a sore throat from the breathing tube used during anesthesia, this usually resolves in a day or two.
- Most patients undergoing laparoscopic adrenalectomy stay 1 night in the hospital, and can sometimes even go home the same day if doing well. After open adrenalectomy, you can expect to spend about 3–5 days in the hospital for monitoring and initial recovery.
- During your hospital stay, the team will help you get up and moving as soon as feasible (usually within 24 hours) to improve circulation. You will be able to eat and drink normally by the next day in most cases.
- Before you are discharged, Professor Sidhu will visit you to explain the preliminary findings of the surgery and ensure you have all the information for at-home care. You’ll be given specific instructions on caring for your incision (which usually will have dissolvable sutures and small adhesive strips). Generally, you can shower normally, and a simple dressing or tape will protect the wound for about 10 days. For laparoscopic incisions, the scars will be small and fade with time; for an open incision, Professor Sidhu uses meticulous techniques to minimize scarring, and we’ll guide you on scar care (such as using tape or vitamin E/Bio-Oil after the initial healing period).
- At home, listen to your body and take it easy, especially for the first 1–2 weeks. Recovery times vary: many patients feel ready to resume light daily activities within two weeks after a laparoscopic adrenalectomy, while an open surgery may require upwards of 4–6 weeks before you feel fully back to normal. You should avoid heavy lifting (nothing over ~5 kg) and strenuous exercise until cleared by Professor Sidhu.
- We will schedule a follow-up appointment typically 1–2 weeks after surgery to check on your incision, review the pathology results of the adrenal gland (to confirm the diagnosis under the microscope), and assess your recovery. If only one adrenal gland was removed, the remaining gland usually takes over hormone production adequately. In fact, most people do not need any long-term medications after a single adrenalectomy, though if your tumor caused hormonal issues, you may require temporary meds while the body readjusts. If both adrenal glands were removed (which is rare), you will need to take lifelong hormone replacement tablets (such as cortisol and possibly aldosterone replacements), Professor Sidhu will have prepared you for this in advance and ensured you are started on the proper medication regimen.
Warning Signs & When to Call:
Why Choose Professor Stan Sidhu for Your Adrenal Surgery?
When it comes to something as important as adrenal gland surgery, you deserve to have absolute confidence in your surgeon. Professor Stan Sidhu stands out as a leading authority in endocrine surgery, bringing together exceptional surgical skill, deep academic knowledge, and a caring approach for each patient. Here are some of the reasons why patients across Sydney, the Central Coast, and the Mid-North Coast trust Professor Sidhu for adrenalectomy and other endocrine procedures:
- Unmatched Experience and Expertise: Professor Sidhu is a high-volume endocrine surgeon, performing over 600 thyroid, parathyroid, salivary, and adrenal surgeries each year. Over his decades-long career, he has conducted thousands of successful operations, making him one of the most experienced adrenal surgeons in Australia. This extensive experience means he has encountered a wide array of adrenal cases, from common to rare, and is adept at handling any complexities that might arise during surgery. His complication rates are very low, and his surgical outcomes are excellent, reflecting his meticulous technique and dedication to patient safety.
- Leading Credentials and Academic Achievement: Professor Sidhu is not only a practicing surgeon but also a respected academic. He serves as Professor of Surgery and Head of the University of Sydney Endocrine Surgical Unit at Royal North Shore Hospital. He earned his medical degree with Honours, completed a prestigious endocrine surgery fellowship overseas, and obtained a PhD researching the molecular genetics of adrenal tumors. He is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) and has published over 210 peer-reviewed scientific papers and book chapters on thyroid, parathyroid, and adrenal disease. He also plays leading roles in professional organizations, for example, he has served as President of the Australian and New Zealand Endocrine Surgeons and is secretary of the International Association of Endocrine Surgeons. These credentials underscore that Professor Sidhu is at the forefront of endocrine surgery, continually updating his knowledge and contributing to advances in the field.
- Specialist in Minimally Invasive Endocrine Surgery: A pioneer in adopting cutting-edge techniques, Professor Sidhu specializes in minimally invasive adrenalectomy. Patients benefit from his expertise in laparoscopic and retroperitoneoscopic adrenal surgery, resulting in smaller scars and faster recovery times. He remains up-to-date with developments like robotic surgery and advanced imaging, ensuring you have access to the latest and safest surgical options. At the same time, if an open surgery is needed, Professor Sidhu’s proficiency in traditional techniques means you are equally in expert hands.
- Compassionate, Patient-Centered Approach: Despite his impressive credentials, Professor Sidhu is known for his warm and approachable demeanor. Patients often commend his ability to explain complex medical information in clear, understandable terms. He takes the time to ensure you and your family fully understand your diagnosis, the surgical procedure, and the expected outcomes. Throughout the process, from the first consultation to post-surgery follow-ups, Professor Sidhu listens to your concerns, answers questions patiently, and provides reassurance. His philosophy is that an informed patient, who is treated with empathy and respect, will have a more positive surgical experience and recovery. This compassionate approach, combined with his surgical talent, has earned him the trust and gratitude of countless patients. When you choose Professor Sidhu, you’re not just getting a surgeon – you’re gaining a dedicated partner in your health journey, one who genuinely cares about your well-being. Our team is built to support pre and post operative care patients.
In summary, Professor Stan Sidhu offers a rare combination of surgical excellence, academic leadership, and heartfelt patient care. His track record and testimonials speak to the quality of care you can expect. For anyone in need of adrenal gland surgery in NSW, Professor Sidhu provides the reassurance of being in the very best hands.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Adrenalectomy
We understand that you may have many questions if you’re considering or have been advised to undergo an adrenalectomy. Below are answers to some of the most common questions patients ask. If you have other questions not covered here, please feel free to contact our clinic, we are here to help you feel informed and confident in your care.