Robotic resection of pheochromocytoma in the second trimester of pregnancy.

Abstract

Pheochromocytoma is a rare neuroendocrine tumor diagnosed in 1:50,000 pregnancies. Normal physiologic changes associated with pregnancy often make early recognition difficult and diagnosis delayed. Treatment consists of medical followed by surgical intervention. This case of a 34-year African-American female diagnosed with an adrenal pheochromocytoma during her second trimester of pregnancy is the first reported case of successful robotic resection. The robot provided advantages, such as enhanced visualisation and freedom of dissection, within this confined space. These added benefits over traditional laparoscopy provide a means for performing difficult procedures within decreased space possibly allowing for interventions in later or larger pregnancies.