Pituitary surgery

• Pituitary adenomas (benign, hormone-active or hormone-inactive tumours of the pituitary gland)
• Craniopharyngeomas (benign malformation tumours)
• Cysts of Rathke's pouch (malformation cysts that can grow during life)
• Rarer space-occupying lesions of the pituitary gland (e.g. carcinomas, abscesses)
• Skull base covering after trauma, surgery, radiotherapy

• Transsphenoidal (through the nose), endoscopic-assisted surgery: Most common procedure, together with ENT
• Transsphenoidal (through the nose), microscopic surgery
• Transcranial (through the skull), minimally invasive microsurgery: Rarely necessary, very large and complex tumours

The surgical treatment of tumorous or cystic masses in the area of the pituitary gland always requires close endocrinological care. This is always ensured by close collaboration with colleagues from Internal Medicine I/Endocrinology.

An inpatient stay of seven to ten days should be planned. Short-term disturbances of the water/electrolyte/hormone balance may occur after the operation and may need to be treated with medication. Temporary substitution with low-dose cortisone for about six to eight weeks after the operation ensures that no deficiency symptoms develop. If long-term endocrinological co-treatment is required, a link can be established with the appropriate outpatient clinic at UKR (Internal Medicine I).

We attach great importance to close and trusting cooperation with referring and treating colleagues and are always available to answer questions and receive suggestions.