[Preoperative embolization of paraganglioma in head and neck]

Preoperative embolization of 10 cases of paraganglioma in carotid artery body and jugular foramen region via endovascular approach was performed. Tumor vessels were obliterated 100% in 7 cases and 80% - 90% in 3 cases as was demonstrated by angiography. It is available for us to reduce bleeding, expose tumor, avoid the iatrogenic damage of the important vessels and nerves around tumor during operation and to total resection possible. Additionally, the manipulating points of embolization are discussed.