Olfactory-Related Quality of Life After Endoscopic Transsphenoidal Surgery

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Neurosurgery
• Quality of Life Research

Background:

• Endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal approach (EETSA) is utilized for various skull base pathologies.
• Olfactory dysfunction is a potential complication following EETSA, impacting patient well-being.
• Understanding olfactory-related quality of life (QOL) changes post-EETSA is critical for patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze olfactory-related QOL changes after EETSA.
• To assess subjective and psychophysical olfactory dysfunction post-surgery.
• To identify factors influencing olfactory-related QOL deterioration following EETSA.

Main Methods:

• 112 patients undergoing EETSA were assessed pre- and post-operatively.
• Olfactory function was evaluated using the YSK Olfactory Function (YOF) test.
• Quality of life and dysfunction were measured using the Questionnaire of Olfactory Disorders (QOD), SF-36, and Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22).

Main Results:

• Significant increases in QOD impairment scores (QOD-LQ, QOD-P, QOD-VAS) were observed post-EETSA.
• 24.1% of patients reported subjective olfactory dysfunction (SNOT-22) despite normal objective YOF test results.
• Female sex and postoperative CSF leakage were independently associated with greater QOL deterioration.

Conclusions:

• Post-EETSA evaluation must consider both olfactory-related QOL and subjective dysfunction, not just objective tests.
• Comprehensive pre- and post-operative counseling is essential for patients undergoing EETSA.
• High-risk populations, particularly female patients, require specific attention for managing olfactory changes.