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Olfactory changes after endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal approach for skull base tumors
Boo-Young Kim1, Seok-Gu Kang, Sung W Kim
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Catholic University of Korea, College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
The Laryngoscope
|March 14, 2014
Summary
Endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal approaches (EETSA) may impair olfactory function regardless of surgical technique. Age influences olfactory recovery, highlighting the need for patient counseling regarding potential smell dysfunction post-EETSA.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Neurosurgery
- Olfactory Neuroscience
Background:
- Endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal approaches (EETSA) are increasingly used for skull base pathologies.
- Olfactory dysfunction is a known sinonasal complication associated with EETSA.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of EETSA on olfactory function.
- To determine if surgical type or patient age influences postoperative olfactory outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 226 patients undergoing binostril four-hand EETSA.
- Patients stratified by surgical technique (bilateral nasoseptal flap variations) and age groups (≤30, 31-45, 46-60, ≥61 years).
- Olfactory function assessed preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively using VAS, CCCRC, and CCSIT.
Main Results:
- Significant decrease in olfactory function (CCCRC, CCSIT scores) and VAS scores in both surgical groups.
- Age >30 years was associated with significant changes in symptom scores and olfactory test results post-EETSA.
Conclusions:
- EETSA may cause olfactory dysfunction independent of surgical technique.
- Age appears to be a factor in olfactory restoration after EETSA.
- Informed consent regarding potential olfactory impairment is crucial for patients undergoing EETSA.
