Systematic Diagnosis and Surgical Treatment of Carotid Body Tumor

Objective: To summarize the clinical experience in systematic diagnosis and surgical treatment of carotid body tumor(CBT).Methods: The clinical data of 8 patients with CBT treated in our hospital from 1990 to 2005 were retrospectively compared with color Doppler flow imaging(CDFI),magnetic resonance imaging(MRI),magnetic resonance angiography(MRA) and digital suntraction angiography(DSA).Preoperative preparation was taken with Matas test and temporary balloon occlusion(TBO).Results: The imaging features of 8 patients with CBT were located at the bifurcation of carotid artery.Blood supply in the tumor was abundant.Internal and external carotid arteries shifted.The bifurcation of carotid artery increased and showed Goldcup in DSA and MRA.Matas test time was 45 to 60 days.TBO test and cross-filling in Willis circle were showed better.No complication was found in 8 postoperative patients with CBT.Conclusion: Manifestations of CBT in CDFI,DSA and MRA have itself imaging characteristics.Preoperative preparation must be taken with Matas test.Cross-filling test in Willis circle is an objective standard to reconstruct branch blood circle in brain.TBO test is the reliable method to determine the safety of carotid ligation.Surgery treatment is still the best choice for patients with CBT at present.