alpha-blockade
Preoperative pharmacological blockade of alpha-adrenergic receptors to prevent hypertensive crisis during pheochromocytoma surgery.
Full Definition
Alpha-blockade is the standard preoperative preparation for patients undergoing surgical resection of catecholamine-secreting tumors. This treatment involves administration of alpha-adrenergic receptor antagonists, typically phenoxybenzamine or doxazosin, to prevent dangerous blood pressure fluctuations during tumor manipulation. The therapy must be initiated at least 7-14 days before surgery and titrated to achieve adequate blood pressure control and volume expansion. Beta-blockade may be added after adequate alpha-blockade is established.
Usage
Usage note: Never use beta-blockade alone in pheochromocytoma patients as it can cause unopposed alpha-stimulation.
In Context
- "Adequate alpha-blockade was confirmed by the patient's ability to tolerate orthostatic position changes without significant blood pressure drop." — Preoperative assessment note
- "The anesthesia team was notified that alpha-blockade had been optimized over the preceding two weeks." — Surgical clearance documentation