Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 15, 2026
07:43
Endoscopic Endonasal Trans-sphenoidal Approach: Minimally Invasive Surgery for Pituitary Adenomas
Published on: January 17, 2018
Isolated sphenoid lesions: diagnosis and management
1Department of Otolaryngology, Singapore General Hospital, Republic of Singapore.
Summary
Isolated sphenoid sinus disease is often underdiagnosed but increasingly detected with advanced imaging and endoscopy. This study highlights diverse pathologies and successful endoscopic treatment outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Neurosurgery
- Radiology
Background:
- Isolated sphenoid sinus disease is rare and often underreported due to nonspecific symptoms and diagnostic challenges.
- Historically, inadequate radiologic examination and sinus inaccessibility hindered diagnosis.
- Advancements in CT/MRI and endoscopic techniques have improved the detection of these lesions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a series of patients with isolated sphenoid lesions.
- To detail the diverse pathologies encountered.
- To evaluate the efficacy of diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopic approaches.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 21 patients treated for isolated sphenoid lesions over 4 years.
- Utilized CT/MRI imaging and diagnostic nasal endoscopy.
- Performed endoscopic biopsy in select cases.
Main Results:
- A wide spectrum of pathologies was identified, including sinusitis, mucoceles, tumors, and fungal infections.
- Endoscopic biopsy provided precise diagnosis in 33.3% of patients.
- Endoscopic sphenoidotomy was the primary treatment in 71.4% of cases, with high success rates.
Conclusions:
- Combined imaging and diagnostic endoscopy facilitate accurate diagnosis of isolated sphenoid lesions.
- Minimally invasive endoscopic techniques are effective for tailored treatment.
- Early and accurate diagnosis leads to improved patient outcomes.
