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Minim Invasive Neurosurg 1998; 41(2): 66-73
DOI: 10.1055/s-2008-1052019
© Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York

Endoscopic Endonasal Transsphenoidal Approach to the Sella: Towards Functional Endoscopic Pituitary Surgery (FEPS)*

P. Cappabianca, A. Alfieri, E. de Divitiis
  • Department of Neurosurgery “Federico II” University School of Mediane, Naples (Italy)
* Presented at the 3rd European Skull Base Congress, London, April 9-11, 1997
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Publication History

Publication Date:
18 March 2008 (online)

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Abstract

Standard microscopical transsphenoidal surgery is used world-wide in most sellar lesions, but continuing technological progress leaves room for further possibilities. The authors have employed a slightly modified Jho-Carrau technique for endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal removal of pituitary lesions. This approach has been successfully used in 15 consecutive patients; the preliminary results are reported. The advantages and the limitations of this technique are discussed and compared to standard transsphenoidal surgery. In consideration of the low invasiveness of this approach and of the improved respect for the inner nose and sinus structures, the authors suggest the new term of Functional Endoscopic Pituitary Surgery (FEPS) to characterize this simple onenostril endoscopic endonasal procedure.

Key words

Pituitary Tumours - Endoscopy - Transsphenoidal Surgery - Endonasal Approach - Minimally Invasive Surgery

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