The extended direct endonasal transsphenoidal approach for nonadenomatous suprasellar tumors

Abstract

The direct endonasal skull-base approach provides an effective minimally invasive means for resecting or debulking nonadenomatous suprasellar tumors that have traditionally been approached through a sublabial or transcranial route. Procedures in the supraglandular space can be performed effectively with excellent visualization of the optic apparatus while preserving pituitary function in most cases. The major challenge remains developing consistently effective techniques to prevent postoperative CSF leaks.