Pituitary tumor treatment with endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery

Endoscopic transsphenoidal removal of a pituitary tumor belongs to the category of minimally invasive surgery and practically does not lead to various complications. In most cases, the operation is performed transnasally through the nose (the back of its cavity). However, it is also possible to access through a small puncture in the upper lip or nasal septum. As a rule, this surgery is carried out under general anesthesia. The neurosurgeon inserts an endoscope into the nose – a flexible tube-shaped instrument equipped with a camera. Depending on the tumor size, it can be placed in one or both nostrils. Its diameter does not exceed 4 mm. The operation is controlled by transmitting the image to the computer screen. After that, the surgeon separates the mucosa and exposes the bone of the anterior sinus. Next, the endoscope is carried out through the nasal passages, then through the latticed sinus, reaching the pituitary gland. Tumor tissues are removed, and bleeding is stopped by electrocoagulation ("sealing" the vessels). After the endoscopic pituitary surgery, the patient must spend 2 to 4 days in a hospital. As a rule, patients tolerate surgery well. However, possible side effects after removing the pituitary tumor may include headaches, nasal congestion, and mood changes. Nevertheless, 80% of patients who lost sight due to the pituitary tumor will recover their vision within a year. In addition, after the operation, patients rapidly lose the weight gained during the illness.