This page provides information for patients undergoing adrenal surgery in Miami and the surrounding areas of South Florida. More information about Dr. Rodgers can be found at About Dr. Rodgers and at UMiamiHealth.org.
The adrenal glands are two paired organs located in the retroperitoneum (in the back of the abdomen), just above the kidneys. They produce a number of hormones with varied activity. The medulla, or inner part of the gland, produces epinephrine and norepinephrine. These are hormones involved in our “fight or flight” response. The cortex, or outer part of the gland, has three distinct layers that produce hormones for controlling blood pressure, metabolism, and secondary sexual characteristics. For a more detailed explanation, see the page entitled Adrenal Anatomy & Physiology.
The operation to remove an adrenal gland is called an adrenalectomy. In experienced hands, this is a very safe operation generally requiring only one night’s stay in the hospital. The operation is almost always performed laparoscopically, unless the tumor is very large, involves surrounding organs, or appears to be malignant.
How to Find an Adrenal Surgeon
Adrenal surgery may be performed by a general surgeon or sometimes by a urologist. General surgeons who practice adrenal surgery often have specialty training in either endocrine surgery or surgical oncology. Specialty training in these areas requires a one- or two-year fellowship after completing a general surgery residency.
Steven E. Rodgers, MD, PhD
Dr. Rodgers is an experienced adrenal surgeon at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine and Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center near downtown Miami. He is a general surgeon who completed a 2-year fellowship in surgical oncology at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. Dr. Rodgers has been in practice since 2006, when he completed his training. He routinely performs laparoscopic adrenalectomy and open adrenalectomy. More information about Dr. Rodgers can be found at About Dr. Rodgers and at UMiamiHealth.org.