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Endoscopic Transnasal Surgery

Specialized procedures for pituitary and 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.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, please call 909/596-7733, ext. 3900 or toll-free 866/724-4127, ext. 3900 or contact us now.

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