New Endonasal Approach to Removing Pituitary Tumors Available at CINN

CHICAGO, IL December 23, 2002—A new minimally invasive procedure for the removal of pituitary tumors resulting in quicker recuperation time and less pain for patients is available at the Chicago Institute of Neurosurgery and Neuroresearch. Gail Rosseau, M.D., is among a handful of neurosurgeons in the country, and one of the only in Chicago , experienced in removing pituitary tumors endoscopically through the nose.

Endoscopic transsphenoidal pituitary tumor resection is a vast improvement over the more traditional method, of operating through the upper lip and nasal septum, because it offers patient's a faster recovery time and little blood loss. In addition, patients suffer less discomfort and rely on fewer pain medications.

"Patients with pituitary tumors from great distances come to us because they hear of the advantages of the endonasal surgical approach," says Dr. Rosseau. "Removing a pituitary tumor is tricky business because the pituitary gland sits so close to the optic nerves and the carotid arteries," she adds. "There are definite risks involved. But this new technique helps to minimize many of the risks."

Approximately 20 percent of the population has some form of pituitary tumor. However, surgery is necessary only if the tumor begins to impede various functions of the brain, such as vision or hormone regulation. She says patients should seek help if they have any visual field loss, fatigue or hormonal imbalance.

Using a Cybyon image-guidance system and a surgical telescope, Dr. Rosseau inserts a small surgical spoon-like instrument through the nostril to mobilize the tissue around the tumor. She then uses a microscopic tong to grasp and remove the tumor, which in most cases is benign.

Dr. Rosseau is one of four female neurosurgeons in Chicago . Her education and experience span the globe. She attended medical school at George Washington University in Washington , D.C. She was a medical trainee, or "clerk" at the National Hospital for Neurological Diseases in London and at Southern General Hospital for Neurological Diseases at the University of Glasgow in Scotland . She was a neurological resident at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney , Australia and a fellow in Paris , France and Pittsburgh , PA.

Please click here to learn more about the endonasal approach in tumor removal.

The Neurologic & Orthopedic Hospital of Chicago is the country's first freestanding acute care hospital dedicated exclusively to neuroscience and orthopedic services. It utilizes breakthrough technology and minimally invasive techniques as well as advanced procedures for neurosurgery, orthopedics, pain management, neuro-oncology, sports medicine, and rehabilitation.