The Pivotal Role of Anti-Hypertensives in the Pre-operative Management of Pheochromocytoma

Pheochromocytomas are rare neuroendocrine tumors with the potential to undergo a malignant change with a precise predisposition towards heart failure due to a highly potent catecholamine surge. Pre-operative intervention with anti-hypertensives can curb the morbidity and mortality related to the neoplasm in addition to the hemodynamic instabilities which appear common. The Tumor's occurrence requires a rationale for an efficacious pre-operative modality such as the pre-operative adrenergic receptor blockade. A standard pre-operative therapeutic strategy and guideline protocol should be established as elucidated by Roizen's criteria for a better overall outcome and prognosis. Phenoxybenzamine, along with metyrosine, should be considered a beneficial synergistic combination for a smooth, complication-free surgical intervention of the tumor.