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Surgery
Source: Pheochromocytoma and Paraganglioma Treatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version, National Cancer Institute.
Source updated: April 10, 2025 · Captured 2026-09-09.
Selected source text with whitespace normalised. This Triangle page is not an NCI PDQ summary. Independent clinical review is pending.
Context: Treatment Option Overview / The following types of treatment are used:
Surgery to remove pheochromocytoma is usually an adrenalectomy (removal of one or both adrenal glands). During this surgery, the tissues and lymph nodes inside the abdomen will be checked and if the tumor has spread, these tissues may also be removed. Drugs may be given before, during, and after surgery to keep blood pressure and heart rate normal.
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After surgery to remove the tumor, catecholamine levels in the blood or urine are checked. Normal catecholamine levels are a sign that all the pheochromocytoma cells were removed.
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If both adrenal glands are removed, life-long hormone therapy to replace hormones made by the adrenal glands is needed.
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Preserved source evidence · Independent clinical review pending · Not medical advice