Endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal surgery for pituitary adenoma in elderly patients / 中华老年医学杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To discuss the operative techniques of endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal surgery for the resection of pituitary adenoma in elderly patients.Methods From June 2003 to June 2012,a retrospective analysis of 42 elderly patients with pituitary adenoma was conducted.Computed tomography (CT) scan,magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan,and endocrinological examinations were performed in all patients before operation.All patients underwent endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal surgery for the resection of pituitary adenoma.Results The tumors were totally removed in 25 cases (59.5％),sub-totally removed in 8 cases (19.1％) and partly removed in 9 cases (21.4％).1 patient died after operaion.Patients were followed up for 6-36 months.The visual acuity and visual field were improved.Hormone replacement therapy were needed in 20 patients due to hypopituitarism.Tumor residuals were found in 12 patients,among whom 5 patients were treated by γ-knife radiosurgery.Conclusions The endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal operation is minimally invasive and safe for the treatment of pituitary adenoma in elderly patients.The strengthening of perioperative management is the key to the successful operation.