Simultaneous bilateral adrenal vein sampling for primary aldosteronism: useful tips to make it simple and safe.

Abstract

Adrenal vein sampling (AVS) is the key test for subtyping patients with primary aldosteronism (PA) before referring those with unilateral disease for laparoscopic unilateral adrenalectomy. However, it is still not systematically used, despite guidelines recommendations, because it is still considered as an invasive, risky, and challenging procedure. Simultaneous bilateral catheterization is believed to add technical difficulties inherent with attempting to catheterize both adrenal veins at the same time, but can be useful to minimize differences between the sides due to timing. We herein report on the protocol for routine clinical use. Tips for preparation of the patient as well as optimal catheterization of adrenal veins and sampling are provided to propose a protocol that is easy, safe, and reliable. Key Points • Adrenal vein sampling is the reference standard in the case of primary aldosteronism to detect the hyper-functioning side and allow subsequent treatment. • Simultaneous bilateral adrenal vein sampling avoids bias related to sampling timing. • Some technical suggestions concerning patient preparation and catheterization are proposed to make simultaneous adrenal vein sampling easier and safer.