Endoscopic resection of pituitary lesions through the nostril.

The endoscope has been used in paranasal sinus surgery for many years. More recently, cooperation between neurosurgeons and ear, nose, and throat (ENT) surgeons has resulted in an extension of use of the endoscope to resection of lesions in the sella turcica region. The procedure described herein involves insertion of the endoscope and surgical instruments through one nostril to provide improved visualization of the pituitary gland and an economy of perioperative trauma. As compared with the traditional sublabial, transseptal approach, endonasal pituitary tumor resection is more direct, less traumatic, and allows excellent exposure of the tumor. These improvements result in reduced morbidity, shorter length of stay, and greater patient satisfaction.