由 home-healthhaven 
Pituitary tumors account for about 10% of all brain tumors. Many of these tumors produce hormones, which makes them easier to detect. The most common type is the pituitary adenoma, a benign growth in the front part of the pituitary gland. Non-secreting tumors are often found when they grow and press on nearby nerves or blood vessels.
When a pituitary tumor causes issues, it can be treated with medication, radiation, or surgery. Modern surgeries for these tumors are minimally invasive yet very effective. One big advantage is that surgeons can now reach the pituitary gland through the nasal passages, avoiding the need to open the skull.
Endoscopes, which are tiny cameras on flexible tubes, play a key role in these procedures. They let doctors see inside the body with minimal invasiveness, unlike older methods that required large incisions. This technique, known as laparoscopic or keyhole surgery, is used for many types of operations today.
The introduction of the endoscope has significantly improved pituitary tumor surgeries. In the past, these tumors were often removed by opening the skull, which is sometimes still necessary for larger or more complex tumors. The older method of approaching the tumor through the nose had some benefits but didn’t provide a clear view, making it difficult to remove all of the tumor tissue. This often resulted in the tumor returning.
Nowadays, endoscopes allow surgeons to see the entire tumor clearly from various angles. The procedure involves no external incisions since everything is done through the nostrils. These tiny tools don’t need any packing in the nasal cavity post-surgery, and patients can usually go home within a day or two. Because the brain isn’t directly disturbed, there are fewer complications and side effects.
Recovery from endoscopic surgery is usually quick. Patients can return to their normal lives swiftly and with minimal side effects. The fully endoscopic pituitary tumor surgery was first performed in 1996, and since then, surgeons have gained a lot of experience and skill in this procedure.
Modern medicine constantly seeks the best ways to treat different conditions. Pituitary tumors were a perfect match for endoscopic surgery because the biggest challenge was seeing the tumor clearly. This approach quickly became the preferred method for treating these tumors and remains the standard today.