What are the complications of minimally invasive pituitary tumor surgery?
Sep 08, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Jun
Introduction
Possible complications following minimally invasive surgery for pituitary tumors may include side effects from anesthesia, sinus headaches, and permanent brain damage. Minimally invasive surgery for pituitary tumors typically involves endoscopic transnasal transsphenoidal removal of the tumor. Sinus headaches are relatively common after surgery due to irritation of sinus tissues by foreign instruments. Permanent brain damage may include chronic headaches, blindness, and cerebrospinal fluid leakage.
Possible complications following minimally invasive pituitary tumor surgery may include anesthesia side effects, sinus headaches, and permanent brain damage.
1. Anesthesia Side Effects
Anesthesia is required before performing minimally invasive pituitary tumor surgery. Side effects of anesthesia may affect multiple systems, including the respiratory and digestive systems. Adverse reactions in the respiratory system may include airway spasms, aspiration pneumonia, and acute respiratory distress syndrome. Gastrointestinal side effects may include nausea, vomiting, and constipation.
2. Sinus Headache
Minimally invasive pituitary tumor surgery typically involves endoscopic transnasal transsphenoidal removal of the tumor. Due to external stimulation of the nasal sinus tissues, postoperative sinus headaches are relatively common. These symptoms usually last for about two weeks and gradually subside thereafter.
3. Permanent Brain Damage
During minimally invasive pituitary tumor surgery, there is a risk of injury to nearby arteries, brain tissue, or central nerves, which could lead to permanent brain damage. Specific symptoms may include chronic headaches, blindness, and cerebrospinal fluid leakage.
The overall incidence of complications from minimally invasive pituitary tumor surgery is relatively low. However, patients may need approximately 3 to 4 months after surgery before they can fully resume normal daily activities and work.
