Endoscopic Transsphenoidal Surgery: surgery to remove certain tumors via nasal passage, instead of opening the skull.
include "header.inc";?>Endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery is a procedure used to remove tumors from the pituitary gland, sphenoid sinus and sellar region through the nose and sphenoid sinus. The literal meaning of the term "endoscopic transsphenoidal" surgery is surgery "through the sphenoid sinus".
Generally, only an endoscope is used for this surgery. However, a microscope can also be used with or without an endoscope. In this procedure, the surgeon reaches the pituitary tumor through the nose. This is a minimally invasive technique used for removing small tumors and anomalies.
This surgery may be used on patients with the following conditions:
This surgery takes about two to three hours, and involves the following steps:
The patient is moved to a postoperative recovery area (called PACU) where vital signs (blood pressure, respiration and heart rate) can be closely monitored. Painkillers are given as needed.
Once fully awake, the patient will be moved to another room. The patient will be asked to increase activity level by sitting in a chair or walking.
Patients may feel symptoms such as headache, nasal congestion or nausea. Medications will be given to controlling these symptoms if they occur.
CT or MRI scans will be taken a day after surgery. The patient will be allowed to go home about 24 to 48 hours after the surgery.