The transsphenoidal surgical approach to the pituitary.
The operating microscope and intraoperative fluoroscopic monitoring have converted this approach from a blind procedure into a precise operation that permits selective (as well as nonselective) resection of pituitary tumors, often restoring function to normal or near-normal levels. Experience with the technique has also shed new light on the pathophysiology of acromegaly, Cushing's disease, and hyperprolactinemia.
D000172:Acromegaly / Q000209:etiology; D000236:Adenoma / Q000378:metabolism; D000568:Amenorrhea / Q000209:etiology; D003480:Cushing Syndrome / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D005471:Fluoroscopy; D005687:Galactorrhea / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008722:Methods; D008866:Microsurgery; D009347:Nelson Syndrome / Q000209:etiology; D010907:Pituitary Hormones / Q000378:metabolism; D010911:Pituitary Neoplasms / Q000150:complications / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D011247:Pregnancy; D011388:Prolactin / Q000097:blood; D013101:Sphenoid Sinus
D010907:Pituitary Hormones; D011388:Prolactin