Isoflurane anesthesia for resection of pheochromocytoma. A report of two cases.

Isoflurane was selected as the main agent for induction and maintenance of anesthesia in two patients scheduled for resection of pheochromocytoma. The inspired concentration was calculated with a pocket computer (Sharp PC 1401) and adjusted to maintain an alveolar concentration of 1.5 to 1 MAC. With this technique, a stable heart rate was observed, without arrhythmias. The blood pressure stabilised at normal levels before surgery and only moderate hypertension was seen during tumor manipulation. No specific antihypertensive medication was needed. Transient hypotension after tumor resection was treated with ephedrine and volume replacement. Recovery of anesthesia was rapid and uneventful.