Recent Developments in Endoscopic Endonasal Approach for Pituitary Adenomas

Abstract

Background: Endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal approach has become the workhorse for pituitary adenomas. The residual rates and complications continue to present as challenges for the pituitary surgeons.

Objective: To review the recent developments in endoscopic pituitary surgeries for improving patient outcomes and safety rates.

Methodology: A search of the last ten years, on PubMed and Google Scholar was performed with the keywords "Pituitary and Neuroendoscopy". A total of 345 articles were found (44 review, 193 original). Relevant articles were chosen.

Results: Substantial improvement has taken place in the field of endoscopic pituitary surgery in the last decade. These include 3D printing, 3D endoscopes, 3D neuronavigation, multi-modal neuronavigation, ultra-high-definition endoscopes, optical fluorescence agents, intraoperative MRI, to name a few.

Conclusion: The technological advancements have increased the resection rates, improved patient outcomes, and helped in the training of younger surgeons. A higher cost remains a concern.

Keywords: Inventions; neuroendoscopy; pituitary neoplasms; surgical oncology technology.