[Adrenal gland pheochromocytoma. Report of 26 cases]

The authors analyse of a series of 26 patients (17 females and 9 males) with a mean age of 32 years (range: 18 to 55 years) operated for adrenal phaeochromocytoma. All patients were hypertensive. The laboratory assessment (assay of blood catecholamines and urinary catecholamine metabolites) performed in more than 2/3 of cases confirmed the diagnosis in more than 80% of cases. The topographic diagnosis was facilitated by computed tomography. Fifteen patients received preoperative treatment with alpha-blockers or calcium channel blockers. Various incisions were used, but a lumbar incision was the most frequent. Blood pressure was controlled postoperatively in 24 patients. Two patients died 1 and 2 postoperatively. New diagnostic modalities (CT, MRI) have facilitated the diagnosis and the site of localization of phaeochromocytomas, thereby improving the choice of incision. Patient-specific preoperative preparation and appropriate anaesthesia facilitate successful adrenal gland surgery.