Endoscopic transsphenoidal resection of sellar tumors with conchal sphenoid sinus: A report of two cases

Abstract

A conchal non-pneumatized sphenoid sinus was previously considered to be a contraindication to the endoscopic transsphenoidal route to the sella due to its small sellar floor and poor anatomical landmarks, such as the optic nerve canal, opticocarotid recess and internal carotid arteries canal. The present study aimed to investigate the methodology and characteristics of the endoscopic transsphenoidal resection of sellar tumors with a conchal sphenoid sinus. Two patients with sellar tumor patients and non-pneumatized sphenoid sinuses received endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery. The two conchal sphenoid sinuses were accessed safely, total resection was achieved and no serious complications occurred. Therefore, the presence of a conchal non-pneumatized sphenoid is not an absolute contraindication for employing the endoscopic transsphenoidal route in the resection of sellar tumors; a positive outcome may be achieved, in particular when the surgery is performed by an experienced otolaryngologist.