Radiosurgery of the Sellar and Parasellar Region

Abstract

Tumors of the sellar and parasellar regions have posed tremendous challenges to neurosurgeons over the past century. Conventional microsurgical techniques alone are often insufficient in providing definitive treatment. Attempts at complete resection are often hindered by tumor proximity to critical vascular, neuronal, and hormonal structures. Treatment combinations including surgery, radiosurgery, radiation therapy, and medical management are often utilized to improve remission rates. Since Dr. Harvey Cushing used the “radium bomb” to treat intracranial tumors in 1923, ionizing radiation has been used as a primary or adjuvant treatment for sellar and parasellar tumors by both neurosurgeons and radiation oncologists.