Results of neuro-endoscopic pituitary surgery in 26 patients with pituitary adenoma

Introduction: Endoscopic surgery of pituitary adenoma is a rapidly developing surgical procedure in the field of neurosurgery, with known limitations and advantages. The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of this technique for treatment of a group of patients with pituitary adenoma. Materials and Methods: In the present study, 26 patients with the diagnosis of pituitary adenoma, who were considered for endoscopic operation between 2002-2005 in Sina and Amir Alam hospitals, were included. The following data were registered: age, sex, symptoms of disease, findings of neurological exam, adenoma type (functional versus non-functional), treatment outcome and complications of the procedure and duration of hospital stay. Results: Twenty six patients (14 male and 11 female) included in the study. Most of them were in the 3-6 decades of life. They included 11 non-functional adenoma, 9 GH-producing adenomas, 3 ACTH secreting adenomas and 3 cases with prolactinomas. Seven patients had complications of the operation (reversible in 6 patients and fatal in 1) and 6 of them had recurrence of the tumor during the 2-year follow up. Conclusion: Endoscopic surgery is an invaluable method for treatment of pituitary adenoma, and factors such as decreased complications and duration of hospital stay further adds to its popularity.