Adrenalectomy in Children: What to Expect at Home

Adrenalectomy is surgery to remove one or both adrenal glands. These glands are located above the kidneys.

The doctor took out one or both of your child's adrenal glands through a cut (incision) in the front, side, or back of the torso. The incision will leave a scar that will fade with time.

The area around the cut will feel sore after the surgery. This usually lasts about 1 to 2 weeks. The doctor may prescribe pain medicine for this.

Your child's body can work fine with one healthy adrenal gland. If both adrenal glands were removed, or if your child's remaining adrenal gland isn't healthy, your child can take medicine every day to replace the hormones that the glands were making.

• Allow your child's body to heal. Don't let your child move quickly or lift anything heavy until they are feeling better.
• Have your child rest when they feel tired.
• Your child can do their normal activities when it feels okay to do so. Many children are able to return to normal activities within 2 to 4 weeks after surgery.
• Have your child hold a pillow over the incisions when coughing or taking deep breaths. This will support the belly and may help to decrease pain.

• Your child can eat a normal diet.
• If your child's bowel movements are not regular right after surgery, you can help your child to avoid constipation and straining. Have your child drink plenty of water. The doctor may suggest fiber, a stool softener, or a mild laxative.

• Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
  • If your child is not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if your child can take an over-the-counter medicine.
  • If the doctor gave your child a prescription medicine for pain, give it as prescribed.
  • Store your child’s prescription pain medicines where no one else can get to them. When you are done using them, dispose of them quickly and safely. Your local pharmacy or hospital may have a drop-off site.
• Your doctor will tell you if and when your child can restart their medicines. The doctor will also give you instructions about your child taking any new medicines.

• Your child will have a dressing over the cut (incision). A dressing helps the incision heal and protects it. Your doctor will tell you how to take care of this.
• If your child has strips of tape on the incision, leave the tape on for a week or until it falls off.
• If your child had stitches, your doctor will tell you when to come back to have them removed.
• Wash the area daily with warm water, and pat it dry. Don't use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol. They can slow healing.
• Wash your hands before and after touching your child's incision.

• Your child may shower 24 to 48 hours after surgery. Pat the incision dry. Your child should not swim or take a bath for the first 2 weeks, or until your doctor tells you it is okay.