Background: In this paper a novel laparoscopic approach to the left adrenal gland by the trans-abdominal anterior route is presented. This approach avoids an extensive viscera dissection to gain access to the left adrenal gland.

Methods: The first step of the procedure is the division of the gastrophrenic ligament and the section of 1 or 2 short gastric vessels in order to mobilize the gastric fundus. The gastric fundus is then pulled down, allowing a wide exposure of the left crus of the diaphragm, the perirenal fat, and the superior edge of the pancreatic body. The diaphragmatic-adrenal channel runs on the left crus, crosses the middle adrenal artery, and, usually, joins the left adrenal vein before its junction with the left renal vein. By pulling on the diaphragmatic vein, exposure of the adrenal vein is facilitated. The adrenal vein is then isolated and divided between clips. Using the monopolar electrocautery to control arteries and small veins, the mobilization of the gland is then completed. The adrenal gland is then placed in a plastic bag to prevent cell spillage and removed through an enlarged umbilical incision.

Results: During a 20-month period, 6 consecutive patients with left adrenal gland neoplasms have been operated on with the above mentioned original approach. The diameter of the adrenal mass ranged from 3 cm to 6 cm. No conversion to open surgery or complications have been registered. The mean operative time was 126 minutes. The mean length of hospitalization was 4.1 days (range 3 to 6).

Conclusions: This approach offers a complete visualization of the left adrenal gland, avoiding mobilization of the spleen, pancreatic tail, and left flexure of the colon, and allows an early and easy control of the left adrenal vein so adrenalectomy can be safely performed.