Background
Resection of pheochromocytoma is often associated with hemodynamic instability (HDI). We examined patient and tumor factors that may influence HDI. The effect of pre-treatment with non-selective alpha-blockade phenoxybenzamine (PXB) vs. selective alpha-blockade on HDI and outcomes was also evaluated.
Methods
The records of 91 patients who underwent adrenalectomy between 2002 and 2013 were retrospectively reviewed. HDI was determined by: number of intraoperative episodes of systolic blood pressure (SBP) >200mmHg, those greater than or less than 30% of baseline, heart rate >110 and the need for postoperative vasopressors. Fishers exact, t-test and regressions were performed.
Results
Among the 91 patients, 78% received PXB, 18% selective alpha-blockade and 4% no adrenergic blockade. Patient demographics, tumor factors and surgical approach were similar among the blockade groups. On multivariate analysis increasing tumor size was associated with a significant rise in the number of episodes of SBP >30% (RR 1.40) and an increased postoperative vasopressor requirement (OR 1.23). Open adrenalectomy and use of selective blockade were associated with an increased number of episodes of SBP >200mmHg (RR 27.8 and RR 20.9, respectively). Open adrenalectomy was also associated with increased readmissions (OR 12.3), complications (OR 5.6), use of postoperative vasopressors (OR 4.4) and hospital stay (4.6 days longer). There were no differences in other HDI measurements or postoperative outcomes among the blockade groups.
Conclusions
Tumor size, open adrenalectomy and type of alpha-blockade were associated with intraoperative HDI during pheochromocytoma resection. Selective blockade was associated with significantly more episodes of intraoperative hypertension but no perioperative adverse outcomes.