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Featuring:
Professor, Henri J.L.M. Timmers, MD, PhD — Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Centre
Professor, Annika Berends, MD, PhD — University Medical Center Groningen
Moderated by: Dr. Karel Pacak, MD, PhD, DSc – Global leader in pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma research
Description
Surgery for pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma (PPGL) requires careful medical preparation to reduce the risk of dangerous blood pressure spikes and heart complications during tumor removal.
In this focused 90-minute session, Dr. Henri Timmers and Professor Annika Berends will explain:
• Why pre-surgical blockade is necessary
• What alpha-blockade means in practical terms
• When and why beta-blockers are added
• The role of salt and fluid intake
• What patients should expect before, during, and after surgery
The discussion will center on practical understanding, safety, and helping patients feel confident and prepared for surgery.
Learning Objectives: By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Explain in simple terms why pre-surgical blockade is necessary for many PPGL patients.
- Understand the basic difference between alpha-blockers and beta-blockers and why the order matters.
- Recognize common side effects of blockade medications and when to contact their care team.
- Understand the purpose of salt and fluid loading before surgery.
- Identify 3–5 key questions to ask their endocrinologist or surgeon before surgery.
Webinar Tool: Practical Questions Patients Can Take to Their Doctor
• Is my tumor secreting catecholamines?
• What alpha-blocker will I be prescribed and why?
• When will a beta-blocker be added, if needed?
• How much salt and fluid should I consume?
• How will my blood pressure be monitored before surgery?
• What symptoms should prompt a call to the clinic?
• How will anesthesia manage intraoperative blood pressure changes?
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