Karotis Cisim Tümörlerinde Cerrahi Deneyimlerimiz

Objective: Carotid body tumors are very rare lesions. Malignant forms are rare, but they can be identified by lymph node invasion and metastases in distant locations. The present study reviews our experience in the diagnosis and treatment of these uncommon lesions. Material-Methods: The study included 12 patients (8 females, 4 males, mean age 52.58 years) who were operated for carotid body tumor in our clinic between 2002-2007. In this retrospective study, preoperative complaints, clinical and radiological findings, surgical approachs, complications and outcome of treatment of our patients were evaluated. Results: Complete excision of the tumor was accomplished without carotid artery injury in all cases. There was no mortality or permanent neurological complications in any of the patients. One petient had suffered temporary dysphagia and one patient had suffered right hemiplegia in postoperative period. Conclusion: Carotid body tumors are rare neoplasm and symptoms are mostly related with compresion effects of the tumor. Because of peripheral vascular and neural invasion or compression of tumors, early diagnosis and treatments are very important.