Overview
Adrenal Venous Sampling (AVS) is a specialized diagnostic procedure used to determine which adrenal gland is producing excess hormones, such as aldosterone, in patients with primary hyperaldosteronism (Conn’s syndrome). This procedure is crucial for deciding the correct treatment, such as surgical removal of one adrenal gland versus medical management. In Korea, AVS is performed in leading hospitals with expert interventional radiologists, advanced imaging technology, and high success rates. The procedure is highly precise but technically challenging, making Korea a preferred destination for patients seeking expert care, accurate diagnosis, and minimal complications.
What is Adrenal Venous Sampling (AVS)?
AVS is a minimally invasive procedure in which blood samples are taken directly from the veins of each adrenal gland. The purpose is to measure hormone levels and determine whether one or both adrenal glands are overactive. This information helps doctors localize the source of hormonal overproduction and plan the most effective treatment, whether surgical or medical.
What are the benefits?
- Accurate localization of hormone-producing adrenal glands
- Guides treatment decisions, preventing unnecessary surgery
- Reduces long-term complications from untreated hyperaldosteronism
- ✅ In Korea, AVS is performed using advanced imaging and catheter techniques, improving success rates and safety
- ✅ Minimal recovery time with outpatient or short hospital stay
Procedure Details
1) How should I prepare for Adrenal Venous Sampling (AVS)?
- ➤ Medical evaluation including blood pressure, kidney function, and electrolyte levels
- ➤ Medication adjustments, particularly antihypertensive drugs
- ➤ Fasting for several hours before the procedure
- ➤ Hydration may be encouraged to make vein access easier
- ➤ Discuss allergies, especially to contrast dye used during the procedure
2) What happens during the procedure Adrenal Venous Sampling (AVS)?
- ✅ Performed under local anesthesia with sedation
- ✅ A catheter is inserted into a vein, usually the femoral vein in the groin
- ✅ Guided by fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray), the catheter is advanced into each adrenal vein
- ✅ Blood samples are collected separately from the right and left adrenal veins
- ✅ Contrast dye may be used to confirm correct catheter placement
- ✅ Procedure usually takes 1–2 hours
3) What happens after a Adrenal Venous Sampling (AVS)?
- ➤ Patients are observed for bleeding or vascular complications
- ➤ Mild soreness or bruising at the catheter site is common
- ➤ Normal activities can often be resumed within 24 hours
- ➤ Results are analyzed to determine hormone levels in each adrenal gland
Risks / Benefits
Potential Risks:
- ➤ Bleeding or hematoma at the catheter site
- ➤ Infection (rare)
- ➤ Allergic reaction to contrast dye
- ➤ Catheter misplacement or vein injury (rare)
Benefits:
- ✅ Accurate identification of which adrenal gland is overproducing hormones
- ✅ Prevents unnecessary surgery
- ✅ Provides data to customize treatment and improve patient outcomes
- ✅ In Korea, highly skilled interventional radiologists perform AVS with excellent success rates
Recovery and Outlook
Most patients can resume normal activities within a day. Blood test results help doctors decide whether surgery or medication is the best approach. Long-term outlook is excellent if treatment is appropriately targeted, with significant improvements in blood pressure control and electrolyte balance.
When To Call the Doctor
- ➤ Excessive bleeding or swelling at the catheter site
- ➤ Persistent pain or fever
- ➤ Allergic reaction symptoms (rash, itching, breathing difficulty)
- ➤ Dizziness or unusual symptoms after the procedure
Best Korea Option / Process
- ✅ Korea has world-class hospitals specializing in endocrine and interventional procedures.
- ✅ AVS is performed by highly trained interventional radiologists using the latest imaging technology.
- ✅ Many hospitals offer VIP international patient services, including English support, airport transfer, and post-procedure monitoring.
- ✅ Cost is often more affordable than in Western countries while maintaining high success rates.
- ✅ Korea’s hospitals provide comprehensive evaluation including pre-procedure consultation, AVS, and follow-up treatment planning.
