The use of vasopressin to treat catecholamine-resistant hypotension after phaecochromocytoma removal

Abstract

A patient undergoing excision of phaeochromocytoma developed refractory hypotension which was complicated significant intraoperative blood loss. Cardiovascular support with fluids, blood and noradrenaline failed to reverse the hypotension. Introduction of vasopressin successfully reversed the hypotension. The experience with this case suggests that vasopressin may be a useful adjunct in the treatment of catecholamine-resistant hypotension after phaeochromocytoma excision.