Use of diltiazem to control circulatory fluctuations during resection of a phaeochromocytoma

This report describes the use of diltiazem to control circulatory fluctuations during anaesthesia in five patients undergoing resection of a phaeochromocytoma. Diltiazem was administered continuously i.v. before anaesthesia and during surgery until the draining vein from the tumour had been ligated. Arterial pressure and systemic vascular resistance decreased in association with the infusion of diltiazem. Heart rate was stable, and there was no ventricular tachyarrhythmia. Arterial pressure was controlled easily during the manipulation of the tumour, and there were no hypotensive episodes after the removal of the tumour.