Pituitary surgery

When is this performed?

• To remove completely a pituitary lesion that is producing excess hormone
• To remove completely or reduce in size a pituitary lesion that is pressing on local structures, e.g. nerves supplying the eyes

What does the treatment involve?

• There are various approaches to pituitary surgery
  1. Transphenoidal – through the nose and sphenoid sinus
  2. Transcranial – through the skull (more major procedure)

Are there any side-effects?

• Hormonal deficiencies may result from removal of pituitary tissue
• Cerebro-spinal fluid may leak temporarily from the wound site
• There is a small risk of meningitis is very small

How long does this treatment take and is admission to hospital required?

• Surgery can take about 3 hours and does require admission to hospital
• The recovery period after surgery is dependent on the patient and surgical approach
• Patients may be off work for 2 weeks
   

What should you tell your doctor?

• A precise list of all your medication
• Your allergies
• If you take steroid replacement

If you have diabetes mellitus