[Extension of pituitary adenomas into the cavernous sinuses (clinico-anatomic study)]

The article deals with the study of 288 verified cases with adenomas of the pituitary gland. Growth of the tumor into the cavernous sinus was revealed in 102 cases (35.4%). The possible routes of penetration of pituitary tumours into the cavernous sinus and the relationship of the new growths with the intracavernous structures are described in detail. The findings of purposeful radio-diagnostic examination revealing the characteristic combinations of the symptoms of intracavernous expansion of the tumor are of paramount importance in recognizing growth of pituitary adenomas into the cavernous sinuses. It is emphasized that the possibility of such growth must be borne in mind when the operation is planned.