Transseptal Transsphenoidal Pituitary Surgery in Children: Influence on Nasal Symptoms and Growth of the External Nose / 대한이비인후과학회지

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Transseptal transsphenoidal approach (TSTS) to pituitary neoplasms has been accepted as a safe and relatively atraumatic means of removing pituitary tumors. This study was performed to analyze the efficacy of TSTS and its influences on nasal symptoms and external nasal deformities in pediatric patients. MATERIALS AND METHOD: Medical records of 18 patients under the age of 15 years, and who underwent TSTS between 1985 and 2001, were reviewed retrospectively. To analyze long-term results, all 18 patients were interviewed in a standardized telephone survey. RESULTS: The most common presenting symptom was visual disturbance (56%) followed by headache (44%). Revision operations were needed in 5 (28%) patients. There were no significant complications such as intractable epistaxis, recurrent sinusitis, anosmia or external nasal deformity. The most common surgical complication was nasal obstruction (17%). CONCLUSION: TSTS is an effective means of removing pituitary neoplasms in pediatric patients and does not produce severe adverse effects on the nasal function and cosmesis.