Surgical Approach in Pheochromocytoma

Abstract

Pheochromocytomas are tumors composed of chromaffin cells that can produce, secrete and metabolise catecholamines. The surgical excision procedure of these tumors may present the risk of significant variations in blood pressure, as well as the chance of cardiovascular complications in the perioperative period. During surgery, patients may be at risk for cardiovascular events such as major variations in blood pressure, pulmonary edema, stroke, myocardial infraction and a long period of intubation. The surgical approach to pheochromocytomas must always be preceded by accurate imaging evaluation, endocrine screening and identification of associated genetic mutations. In addition, the surgical technique of choice consists in using minimally invasive surgical methods, with a transabdominal or retroperitoneal approach.