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Retroperitoneal paraganglioma-Is pre operative embolization useful?
Natalia Apentchenko Eriutina1, Camilo J Castellón Pavón1, Carlos García Vásquez1
1Department of General and Digestive Surgery, Hospital Universitario Infanta Elena, Valdemoro, Madrid, Spain.
International Journal of Surgery Case Reports
|August 15, 2017
Summary
Preoperative embolization for abdominal paragangliomas (PG) is controversial. This case study suggests embolization is risky and may not reduce bleeding or surgical time, reserving it for highly vascularized tumors.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Surgical Oncology
- Vascular Surgery
Background:
- Paragangliomas (PG) are rare, catecholamine-producing tumors originating from extra-adrenal chromaffin cells.
- Surgical resection is the primary treatment, with ongoing debate on the role of preoperative embolization and optimal surgical approach.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a clinical case of a retroperitoneal paraganglioma treated with preoperative embolization followed by surgical resection.
- To discuss the controversial role and risks of embolization in managing abdominal paragangliomas.
Main Methods:
- A 17-year-old female patient with a retroperitoneal tumor near major vessels underwent embolization.
- Subsequent surgical resection was performed via laparotomy.
Main Results:
- The study highlights the risks associated with preoperative embolization of abdominal PG.
- Evidence that embolization significantly reduces peri-operative bleeding or surgical duration is lacking.
Conclusions:
- Embolization for abdominal paragangliomas is not universally beneficial and carries inherent risks.
- Preoperative embolization should likely be reserved for exceptionally large or hypervascularized tumors.