The endocrine system consists of glands that produce hormones. Hormones help to regulate body systems, such as metabolism (digestion), breathing/temperature and sexual development. Tumors growing in the glands can affect hormone production and their associated systems. Endocrine tissue is also found elsewhere in the body, such as in the pancreas tract, and these cells may grow into benign or malignant tumors.

Endocrine surgery treats both benign and malignant diseases of the endocrine system. This includes the thyroid, parathyroid glands, the adrenal glands, certain tumors of the pancreas, some kinds of tumors in the gastrointestinal tract as well as a number of familial disorders that are characterized by endocrine tumors.

Wake Forest Baptist surgical oncologists specialize in minimally invasive surgical procedures to remove tumors from the endocrine system. They work closely with medical endocrinologists, as well as radiologists, oncologists, and nuclear medicine specialists to ensure that patients receive a multidisciplinary approach to their treatment.