Enflurane anesthesia for surgical removal of pheochromocytoma

Four cases describing the use of enflurane as the main anesthetic during surgical removal of pheochromocytoma (PCC) are presented and the preoperative preparation and intraoperative management of the patients are discussed. Serum levels of epinephrine and norepinephrine were measured in 3 of the reported cases. Intraoperative values were extremely elevated during tumor manipulation, but there was only 1 minor episode of arrhythmias. Criteria for choosing anesthetic agents for surgical removal of PCC are outlined. The authors conclude from their experience and that of others that enflurane is as safe and effective an anesthetic as any now available for PCC excision.