Laparoscopic adrenalectomy: advantages of an atraumatic suction grasper.

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy still presents some technical problems. The impossibility of directly grasping the gland is the main difficulty. To overcome this problem, we have begun to use an atraumatic suction grasper. From September 1995 to December 1997, 15 laparoscopic adrenalectomies were performed. Group 1 comprised 8 patients operated on without the atraumatic suction grasper; group 2 consisted of 7 patients who underwent a laparoscopic adrenalectomy with the use of this new device. The surgical technique with the use of an atraumatic suction grasper is described. No significant difference was noted between the two groups except in the operative time, which was reduced in group 2, and in the surgeon's comfort. The reported advantages are a direct grasp of the adrenal gland without the risk of squeezing, rupture, or bleeding; a better exposure of the adrenal vessels; and shorter operating time.