Pituitary Tumors - Surgery for tumors arising from the pituitary gland .
the
pituitary gland lies at the base of the brain in a small bony
impression called as the sella. The pituitary gland is responsible for
the overall control of hormones regulating the various bodily functions
( thyroid, adrenals, gonads-ovaries & testes). Tumors arising from
the pituitary gland can present with hormonal disturbances, eyesight
problems (reduction in visual field)and other non-specific problems like
headaches or giddiness. All these problems can arise slowly or may
manifest suddenly due to bleeding inside the pituitary gland( pituitary
apoplexy).
Surgery is needed for tumors which are not responsive to
medications or if the tumor is causing pressure on the optic nerves
giving rise to visual problems.
Surgery for pituitary adenomas is
most commonly performed through the nostril with an endoscope or
microscope. Patients need hospital stay for 4-5 days approximately.
close monitoring of hormones is required in the post operative period.