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Updated: May 18, 2026
07:43
Endoscopic Endonasal Trans-sphenoidal Approach: Minimally Invasive Surgery for Pituitary Adenomas
Published on: January 17, 2018
Vasospasm post pituitary surgery: systematic review and 3 case presentations.
Alireza Mansouri1, Aria Fallah, Michael D Cusimano
1Division of Neurosurgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5B 1W8, Canada. alireza.mansouri@utoronto.ca
Summary
Vasospasm after pituitary surgery is rare but serious, especially after bleeding. Early detection and treatment are crucial for better patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Neurology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Vasospasm is a known complication of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage.
- It is infrequently associated with pituitary adenoma surgery.
- This study guides neurosurgeons in prevention and management.
Observation:
- Three cases of vasospasm post-pituitary surgery are reported.
- A systematic literature review was performed.
- 29 patients with vasospasm complicating pituitary adenoma surgery were analyzed.
Findings:
- Postoperative hemorrhage (subarachnoid or hematoma) preceded all vasospasm cases.
- Delayed cerebral ischemia typically appeared on postoperative Day 5.
- Digital subtraction angiography and medical management were common strategies.
- Later diagnosis and hematoma evacuation surgery correlated with better outcomes.
Implications:
- Vasospasm should be considered in altered mental status post-pituitary surgery.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment are vital.
- This guides neurosurgical practice for this rare complication.
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