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Updated: May 17, 2026
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Endoscopic Endonasal Trans-sphenoidal Approach: Minimally Invasive Surgery for Pituitary Adenomas
Published on: January 17, 2018
Hypopituitarism and sphenoid surgery.
Michael T Flannery1, Robert C Flannery
1Department of Internal Medicine, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, Wesley Chapel, Florida 33543, USA. mflann5555@aol.com
The American Journal of the Medical Sciences
|November 10, 2012
Summary
Sphenoid surgery for nasal polyps can lead to hypopituitarism, a rare complication. This case highlights the importance of monitoring pituitary function after such procedures.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Endocrinology
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Rhinitis with polyposis often requires surgical intervention.
- Sphenoid and ethmoid surgeries are common procedures for sinonasal diseases.
Observation:
- A middle-aged man developed severe fatigue, myalgias, and arthralgias post-sphenoid and ethmoid surgery.
- Symptoms included central hypogonadism, low IGF-1, and abnormal growth hormone stimulation tests.
- Recurrent symptoms of nausea and vomiting occurred when ill, persisting for 7 years.
Findings:
- Hormonal testing revealed inappropriate thyroid and cortisol responses.
- The patient's clinical symptoms resolved with medical therapy.
- Literature review found no prior reports of hypopituitarism following sphenoid surgery.
Implications:
- This case suggests a potential link between sphenoid surgery and the development of hypopituitarism.
- Endocrinological monitoring may be warranted in patients experiencing persistent symptoms after sphenoid surgery.
- Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms and incidence of this rare complication.
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