Recent Developments in Endoscopic Endonasal Approach for Pituitary Adenomas.

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal approach has become the workhorse for pituitary adenomas. The residual rates and complications continue to present as challenges for the pituitary surgeons.

OBJECTIVE

To review the recent developments in endoscopic pituitary surgeries for improving patient outcomes and safety rates.

METHODOLOGY

A search of the last ten years, on PubMed and Google Scholar was performed with the keywords "Pituitary and Neuroendoscopy". A total of 345 articles were found (44 review, 193 original). Relevant articles were chosen.

RESULTS

Substantial improvement has taken place in the field of endoscopic pituitary surgery in the last decade. These include 3D printing, 3D endoscopes, 3D neuronavigation, multi-modal neuronavigation, ultra-high-definition endoscopes, optical fluorescence agents, intraoperative MRI, to name a few.

CONCLUSION

The technological advancements have increased the resection rates, improved patient outcomes, and helped in the training of younger surgeons. A higher cost remains a concern.