Care of the patient with carotid body tumors
Biga, L.A.; Netterville, J.L.
Orl-Head and Neck Nursing Official Journal of the Society of Otorhinolaryngology and Head-Neck Nurses 12(4): 11-16
1994
ISSN/ISBN: 1064-3842 PMID: 8564771 Document Number: 433496
The carotid bodies, located at the bifurcation of the carotid arteries, rarely develop neoplasms or carotid body tumors. The most interesting aspects of this rare tumor are its anatomical location, familial tendency, physiologic alterations related to removal, and surgical management. Tumors of the carotid body can occur alone or bilaterally. Prompt and accurate diagnosis is essential so that resection can be done in the early stage of the disease. Nurses must be aware of the risks and potential complications that may be encountered after surgical excision of this tumor.