Carotid body tumour: microvascular Doppler flowmeter for shunt placement

During the span of five years from October, 1987 to December, 1992, we have operated on six cases of carotid body tumours. Total excision was performed in five patients; one patient had 90% of the tumour excised. All patients had pre-operative balloon occlusion test; only one patient showed electroencephalographic changes. Three patients required intra-operative intraluminal shunts for various reasons. Microvascular Doppler flowmetery confirmed patency and correct placement of the shunt. Elective use of the intraluminal shunt is very useful for safe excision of carotid body tumours. Microneurosurgical techniques were used for all patients. There were no cerebrovascular sequelae and 25% of patients experienced cranial nerve injury. Average follow up was three years and none of the total excision patients have had recurrence of the tumours.