Transsphenoidal surgery

Transsphenoidal surgery, also called a transsphenoidal hypophysectomy, allows a doctor to reach the pituitary gland and nearby areas by going through the sphenoid sinus – a cavity located behind the nose at the base of the brain.

Transsphenoidal surgery can be used to remove pituitary tumors, including adenomas and craniopharyngiomas. Transsphenoidal hypophysectomy is also used to treat Cushing’s disease, a condition that can cause a mass to form on the pituitary gland.

Transsphenoidal surgery treatment options

At Aurora Health Care, our expert neurosurgeons perform two types of transsphenoidal surgery: the expanded endonasal approach and the sublabial approach.

The expanded endonasal approach is a minimally invasive procedure in which a tumor is removed through the nasal passages, resulting in no incisions. This approach to transsphenoidal surgery usually requires a shorter hospital stay and allows for faster recovery.

The sublabial approach involves an incision under the upper lip, along the gum line. Depending on its size, a tumor will be removed in one piece or several smaller pieces.

In some cases, a fat graft will be needed. This is the removal of a small piece of fat from your abdomen. It is then placed into the pituitary chamber to prevent brain fluid from leaking.

Recovery from transsphenoidal surgery

Before you wake up from your transsphenoidal surgery, your doctor will pack your nostrils with gauze. They will be packed for several days post-op, so you’ll need to breathe through your mouth during this time.

Your transsphenoidal hypophysectomy surgical stitches will dissolve in one week to 10 days. Your nurse or doctor will provide you with additional instructions to aid in recovery from your transsphenoidal surgery. These may include details about when and how you can brush your teeth, blow your nose, exercise, return to work and receive follow-up medical care.