Adrenalectomy is a medical term that refers to the surgical removal of one or both adrenal glands. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ədˌriː.nəˈlɛk.tə.mi/. The combination of the letters "ct" and "my" indicates a suffix that is commonly used in medical terminology to refer to a surgical procedure. The spelling of the word is dictated by its etymology and is derived from the Greek words "adrene" meaning adrenal glands, and "ektome" meaning excision or removal. Adrenalectomy is often used to treat conditions such as adrenal tumors, Cushing's syndrome, and primary aldosteronism.
Adrenalectomy is a medical term referring to a surgical procedure that involves the complete or partial removal of one or both of the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands are small, triangular-shaped endocrine glands located on top of the kidneys, and they play a crucial role in the production and regulation of hormones that are essential for maintaining various bodily functions.
This surgical procedure is most commonly performed to treat a range of conditions affecting the adrenal glands, such as adrenal tumors or cancers, adrenal gland overactivity (hyperfunction), or adrenal gland underactivity (hypofunction). Adrenalectomy can be carried out using different surgical techniques, including traditional open surgery or minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery, depending on the specifics of the case and the preference of the surgeon.
Common indications for adrenalectomy include adrenal tumors that are suspected to be malignant or functional, causing hormonal imbalances or leading to excessive hormone production. The procedure aims to remove the affected adrenal gland(s) in order to eliminate the tumor or address the underlying hormonal disorder. Following adrenalectomy, patients may require hormone replacement therapy to compensate for the loss of hormonal production from the excised gland.
Prior to the procedure, a comprehensive evaluation is typically conducted to assess the specific condition and the overall health of the patient. Post-operative care involves monitoring of hormonal levels, pain management, and close observation for any surgical complications or adverse reactions. Adrenalectomy is generally considered a safe and effective treatment option, with the potential to alleviate symptoms and improve the overall health and well-being of patients with adrenal gland disorders.
Removal of an adrenal body.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "adrenalectomy" has its roots in Latin and Greek.
The term is derived from the Latin word "ad", meaning "near" or "by", and the Latin word "renes", meaning "kidneys". The Latin word "adrenales" refers to the adrenal glands situated near the kidneys.
The second part of the word, "-ectomy", comes from the Greek word "ektomē", meaning "excision" or "removal".
Therefore, "adrenalectomy" combines "adrenales" (Latin for adrenal) and "-ectomy" (Greek for removal), and refers to the surgical excision or removal of one or both adrenal glands.