Left adrenalectomy, laparoscopic

Imaging demonstrates a multinodular 5cm–6cm large cyst-like mass in the region of the left adrenal, clinically confirmed as pheochromocytoma.

Perform medial 2cm long minilaparotomy in left upper quadrant for the trocar of the laparoscope and then initiate pneumoperitoneum. After exploration of the abdominal cavity introduce two more working trocars – one 5mm trocar in the left upper quadrant and a Versa-Port V12 anterior to the 11^thrib.

Pull the descending colon mediad and incise the retroperitoneum in the avascular plane anterior to the left kidney.

Approach the left adrenal laterally by freeing the left colic flexure step by step from the retroperitoneum until large parts of the anterior aspect of the Gerota fascia and renal capsule have been exposed.

Note:In slender patents it may become difficult to spare the Gerota fascia.

Now transect the suspensory ligaments tying the spleen to the diaphragm, which then allows en blocmobilization of the spleen and pancreatic tail.