We present our approach to the management of patients with carotid body tumors, emphasizing the role of magnetic resonance angiography for the identification of these tumors. Medical records of all patients with carotid body tumors who were managed between 1991 and 2001 were retrospectively reviewed. Nine patients with carotid body tumors were identified. There were four males and five females, ranging in age from 28 to 74 years. Duplux scanning, computed tomography (CT) scanning, and angiography were performed for seven patients, whereas Duplux and magnetic resonance angiography were performed for the remaining two patients. Eight patients underwent successful excision of the tumor. Neither postoperative deaths nor strokes occurred. Temporary cranial nerve injury occurred in two patients. One patient developed local recurrence 5 years later. Early diagnosis of carotid body tumors with Duplex and magnetic resonance angiography is possible. Early surgery for carotid body tumors minimizes the risk of complications associated with large tumors.