Noninvasive localization pheochromocytomas

Because of the propensity for extra-adrenal sites, preopertative localization of pheochromocytomas remains an important operative determinant. Although arteriography has been widely considered to be the procedure of choice for preoperative localization, in this series of 13 patients, falsely negative arteriograms were seen on two occasions while four patients experienced significant morbidity from attempts at angiographic localization. Emphasis is placed upon noninvasive techniques as the initial approach toward localization. The value of bolus infusion nephrotomography is re-emphasized and localization of a pheochromocytoma by ultrasound and computerized axial tomography is described.