Characteristics of the Problems of a Patient with a Pituitary Tumour Treated Endoscopically through the Sphenoid Sinus

Abstract

Introduction. Pituitary tumours are usually benign adenomas. Surgical treatment is most often dedicated to patients with adenomas that cause symptoms of pressure, such as visual disturbances, headaches or symptoms resulting from hormonal disorders.

Aim. The aim of this study is to present the characteristic problems of a patient with pituitary macroadenoma who underwent endoscopic surgery through the sphenoid sinus.

Case Report. An individual case study of a 42-year-old man with pituitary macroadenoma who underwent surgical treatment through the sphenoid sinus is presented. The patient’s problem before neurosurgical treatment were headaches, which impaired his functioning. The postoperative period was uneventful, but required careful monitoring of the patient for cerebrospinal fluid leakage from the nose, diabetes insipidus and electrolyte disturbances.

Discussion. The case we analyzed required intensified multi-directional observation due to the risk of complications. After surgery, the patient was relatively quickly independent in everyday activities. Additionally, he required further support and education from the nursing team.

Conclusions. Endoscopic procedure through the nose and sphenoid sinus does not externally mutilate the patient, the postoperative wound is moved deep into the nose. The patient remains physically fit, quickly becomes independent in everyday activities, and requires little assistance from the nurse. Furthermore professional nursing observation of the patient after transsphenoidal endoscopic surgery allows detecting disturbing symptoms, enabling their early recognition and effective treatment. (JNNN 2023;12(4):170–176)