Etymed
adrenalectomy
Definition
Surgical removal of the adrenal gland
Clinical context
A 45-year-old woman presents with severe hypertension, headaches, and weight gain over the past 6 months. Imaging reveals a large left adrenal mass. Laboratory studies show elevated catecholamines and metanephrines. She undergoes adrenalectomy and her symptoms resolve completely postoperatively.
Mnemonic
Adrenal removal = Adrenalectomy - remember 'adrenal' and 'ectomy' to mean surgical removal of the adrenal gland