Side-Firing Intraoperative Ultrasonograhy for Resection of Giant Pituitary Adenomas

Suprasellar extension, cavernous sinus invasion, and involvement of intracranial vascular structures and cranial nerves are among the challenges faced by surgeons operating on giant pituitary macroadenomas. Intraoperative tissue shifts may render neuronavigation techniques inaccurate. Intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging can solve this problem, but it may be costly and time consuming. However, intraoperative ultrasonography (IOUS) allows for quick, real-time feedback and may be particularly useful when facing giant invasive adenomas. Here, we present the first study examining technique for IOUS-guided resection specifically focusing on giant pituitary adenomas.

To describe the use of a side-firing ultrasound probe in the resection of giant pituitary macroadenomas.

We describe an operative technique using a side-firing ultrasound probe (Fujifilm/Hitachi) to identify the diaphragma sellae, confirm optic chiasm decompression, identify vascular structures related to tumor invasion, and maximize extent of resection in giant pituitary macroadenomas.

Side-firing IOUS allows for identification of the diaphragma sellae to help prevent intraoperative cerebrospinal fluid leak and maximize extent of resection. Side-firing IOUS also aids in confirmation of decompression of the optic chiasm via identification of a patent chiasmatic cistern. Furthermore, direct identification of the cavernous and supraclinoid internal carotid arteries and arterial branches is achieved when resecting tumors with significant parasellar and suprasellar extension.

We describe an operative technique in which side-firing IOUS may assist in maximizing extent of resection and protecting vital structures during surgery for giant pituitary adenomas. Use of this technology may be particularly valuable in settings in which intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging is not available.