ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: Transsphenoidal approach(TSA) has been used as useful operative method for pituitary tumor but is still controversal in case of cavernous sinus invasion or severe suprasellar extension. This study was performed to evaluate the surgical result, recurrence, effect of adjuvant treatment, especially in cases of suprasellar extension or cavernous sinus invasion. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We studied 56 cases of surgically treated pituitary adenoma that we were able to follow up, treated by TSA from 1993 to 1998. There were 24 cases of suprasellar extension and 11 cases of cavernous sinus invasion. The medical records and radiological findings were reviewed. Surgical results including hormonal function and recurrence rates were analyzed according to extent of tumor invasion. Mean follow-up period was 19.1 months. RESULTS: Tumors with suprasellar extension were removed totally in 54%, whereas total tumor removal was possible only in 38% with cavernous sinus invasion. Overall of recurrence rate was 14% and recurrence rate was 25% in suprasellar extension and 9% in cavernous sinus invasion. In cases of both suprasellar extension and cavernous sinus invasion, tumors that were treated by TSA and radiation showed recurrence rate of 7%, whereas those treated by surgery alone showed 28% of recurrence. CONCLUSION: Transsphenoidal approach is safe and useful operative method for pituitary adenoma and adjuvant therapy including radiation therapy is effective means to decrease the recurrence in cases of suprasellar extension or cavernous sinus invasion.