[Paragangliomas of the carotid body--clinical problems and therapy]

24 carotid body tumors in 21 patients (1970-1990) have been analysed retrospectively. These well vascularized tumors are growing slowly in the carotid bifurcation and often cause failures in diagnostic and therapeutical approach. 66% (14) have been operated on partially 2-3 times with wrong diagnosis (cervical gland, lateral cervical cyst and others) in other hospitals. It is important to come to an early diagnosis by the typical trias according to Fontaine and Kocher by CT-scan and arteriography. The best method of operation is the so-called technique of transsection, which is also applicable in advanced tumor state (type II-III according to Linder). In tumors, which are beyond radical operability, good cosmetic and functional results can be achieved by partial resection.