Complications

Complication
Timeframe
Likelihood
short term
low

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is generally associated with a low rate of perioperative complications.

The laparoscopic approach has allowed for a shorter recovery than open adrenalectomy.[118]

long term
medium

Can occur due to hypertension-accelerated cerebrovascular disease and ischaemic or haemorrhagic cerebral events.

The prevalence appears to be higher than in patients with essential hypertension.[66] This is thought to be related to non-blood pressure-dependent adverse cardiovascular effects of aldosterone excess causing remodelling of the heart and blood vessels.

For uncertain reasons, the risk of haemorrhagic stroke is particularly high in patients with familial hyperaldosteronism type I.[22]

Overview of stroke

long term
medium

Can occur due to hypertension accelerating coronary disease and causing left ventricular hypertrophy.

The prevalence appears to be higher than in patients with essential hypertension.[66] This is thought to be related to non-blood pressure-dependent adverse cardiovascular effects of aldosterone excess causing remodelling of the heart and blood vessels.

Overview of acute coronary syndrome

long term
medium

Can occur due to hypertension accelerating coronary disease and causing left ventricular hypertrophy.

Non-blood pressure-dependent adverse cardiovascular effects of aldosterone excess causing remodelling of the heart and blood vessels also probably contribute.[124]

Chronic congestive heart failure

long term
medium

Can occur due to hypertension causing left ventricular hypertrophy, and, in some cases, hypokalaemia.

The prevalence appears to be higher than in patients with essential hypertension.[66] This is thought to be related to non-blood pressure-dependent adverse cardiovascular effects of aldosterone excess causing remodelling of the heart and blood vessels.

Chronic atrial fibrillation

long term
medium

Can occur due to hypertension accelerating renal injury, and contributed to by aldosterone excess causing renal hyperfiltration.[144]

variable
medium

Because they are potassium-sparing, spironolactone, amiloride, and eplerenone can all cause hyperkalaemia.[6][122] The risk is higher in patients with renal dysfunction, older people, diabetic patients, and patients receiving other agents known to raise plasma potassium levels.

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