Endonasal endoscopic removal of growth-hormone-secreting pituitary adenomas

Hong Kong Med J. 2001 Jun;7(2):189-92.

Abstract

Trans-sphenoidal removal of pituitary tumours using the endonasal endoscopic technique, a novel application, is herein reported in five consecutive patients with growth-hormone-secreting pituitary adenomas seen at a teaching hospital in Hong Kong. All five patients demonstrated complete tumour removal on postoperative imaging and hormonal assessment following the procedure. Surgical morbidity and symptoms were minimal; postoperative obstructive nasal packing was not required with this technique, which greatly improved patient comfort. Preliminary experience suggests that the endonasal endoscopic approach is a safe and effective alternative to the conventional trans-septal microscopic method for the treatment of pituitary tumour. A randomised controlled trial comparing these two approaches is currently underway at this institution.

MeSH terms

  • Adenoma / metabolism*
  • Adenoma / surgery*
  • Adult
  • Endoscopy
  • Female
  • Human Growth Hormone / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Pituitary Neoplasms / metabolism*
  • Pituitary Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Sphenoid Bone

Substances

  • Human Growth Hormone