Transnasal transseptal endoscopic approach to the sphenoid sinus

A modified transseptal approach to the sphenoid sinus and pituitary gland utilizing rigid endoscopy has been developed by the Departments of Otolaryngology, Plastic Surgery, and Neurosurgery at The Cleveland Clinic Foundation. When compared with alternate approaches or the nonendoscopic transseptal procedure, the modified approach provides better visualization and increased illumination of the surgical sites. Other advantages include a decrease in operating time, dissection, bleeding, and postoperative morbidity without compromising nasal function in the postoperative period.