Endoscopic Transnasal Surgery
An optimal approach for surgical treatment of pituitary & skull base lesions
Today’s most advanced minimally invasive surgical procedure for the
treatment of most pituitary and skull base lesions – endoscopic
transnasal surgery – is available here at Casa Colina Hospital and
Centers for Healthcare.
This specialized procedure is performed by our staff neurosurgeon, who
is fellowship trained in endoscopic transnasal pituitary and skull base
surgery. We treat patients ages 15 to 85 with all types of pituitary and
skull base lesions using this groundbreaking method, in which tumors and
other lesions are removed by a minimally invasive approach through the
nasal cavity and sinuses.
Patient benefits
The endoscopic transnasal method uses naturally occurring nasal passageways
to access the skull base through the sinuses, eliminating the need for
any incisions in the scalp, face, or under the lip. In addition, this
approach allows us to perform the entire tumor removal without the need
for potentially damaging retraction of the brain.
The result: Improved visualization of the skull base region creates the
opportunity to obtain a safer, more complete tumor removal. Patients typically
experience a faster recovery, with minimal blood loss during surgery and
less pain after.
Conditions treated
Endoscopic transnasal surgery can be used to address most lesions of the
skull base, including:
• Hormone-secreting (functional) and non-hormone-secreting (non-functional)
pituitary adenomas
• Rathke’s Cleft Cysts and other cystic lesions of the pituitary region
• Meningiomas
• Clival Chordomas
• Craniopharyngiomas
Before surgery
You will meet with your neurosurgeon to outline the goals of your procedure.
Because surgery is not the optimal treatment for everyone, all appropriate
therapeutic alternatives will be explored and thoroughly discussed.
During surgery
The procedure is performed in the Casa Colina Medical-Surgical Wing using
a visualization device known as an endoscope. This thin, tube-like instrument
is only 4 mm (.15 inches) in diameter and fits easily through the nostrils,
allowing room for two other operative instruments. The endoscope attaches
to a camera and light source, which are linked to multiple high-definition
monitors that allow for optimal visualization during surgery. A highly
experienced clinical team assists the surgeon throughout the procedure.
After surgery
Most patients remain at Casa Colina for two to four days after endoscopic
transnasal surgery. Your post-operative care will be personally overseen
by your neurosurgeon.
Second opinions
Our surgeons are available for second opinions if you have been diagnosed
with a pituitary or skull base lesion or are already planning a procedure.
Often, receiving another expert view on your diagnosis and prognosis can
help you decide the best course of action.
Learn more
For more information or to schedule a consultation, please call 909/596-7733,
ext. 3900.