Computer-aided/image-guided and video-endoscopic resection of pituitary tumors

Endoscopic pituitary surgery is a minimally invasive method which allows simple transnasal transphenoidal surgical access without retractors, and has been used by our team in 536 patients from 1993 to 1999. In 326 of these patients, computer-aided image-guided techniques (CAN) were used in conjunction with endoscopy. We found that CAN techniques and endoscopy allow accurate and precise minimal access to small, deep/lateral microadenomas and enable a more complete resection of large pituitary tumors especially those which are firm/fibrous in nature. Overall results were better than conventional pituitary surgery with a lower morbidity and shorter hospital stays. However, special training and expertise is needed for surgeons to carry out these procedures with acceptable results.