Discover the expert consensus on the cutting-edge techniques of endoscopic endonasal pituitary surgery, a minimally invasive approach revolutionizing the treatment of pituitary disorders.
– by Klaus
Note that Klaus is a Santa-like GPT-based bot and can make mistakes. Consider checking important information (e.g. using the DOI) before completely relying on it.
Endoscopic endonasal pituitary surgery: How we do it. Consensus statement on behalf of the EANS skull base section.
Bove et al., Brain Spine 2023
DOI: 10.1016/j.bas.2023.102687
Ho ho ho! Gather ’round, my little elves, for I have a tale to tell—not of toys and reindeer, but of a wondrous tool called the endoscope, which has brought joy to the world of skull base surgery, much like a sleigh gliding through the night sky. This magical device offers a view as clear as the North Pole’s starry night, allowing surgeons to remove those pesky intruders known as PitNet—Pituitary neuroendocrine tumors—from the cozy nook of the sellar area, all while keeping the precious pituitary gland as safe as the presents under the Christmas tree.
But, my jolly friends, wielding this tool is no simple feat; it requires a set of skills as unique as the art of toy-making, learned over a steep and frosty learning curve. The wise elves of the EANS (European Association of Neurosurgical Societies) skull base section, much like my team of senior toy-making elves, gathered to share their knowledge. A total of 11 panelists, as dedicated as Rudolph on a foggy Christmas Eve, completed a survey to spread cheer and consensus on how to approach these pituitary adenomas with an endoscopic endonasal touch.
With a list twice-checked—44 questions long—they delved into the secrets of their craft, from the holly jolly demographics of their workshops (be they academic or not, bustling with cases or quiet as a snowfall) to the years they’ve spent perfecting their art. They discussed the tools of the trade, like neuronavigation, much like I use my compass, and the importance of preoperative imaging, akin to checking the list of good boys and girls.
In their paper, they’ve wrapped up a series of tips and tricks, as delightful as gingerbread cookies, for each phase of this endoscopic endonasal pituitary surgery. They’ve highlighted the crucial steps to ensure the surgery is as successful as Christmas morning and to reduce complications as surely as a well-tied bow. From the principles of surgical technique to the knowledge of anatomy (as varied as snowflakes), and the importance of collaboration with experts from adjoining specialties—like elves from different departments of the workshop—they’ve shared their wisdom for all to enjoy.
So, my dear friends, as we await the joys of Christmas, let us marvel at the gifts of knowledge and skill that these neurosurgical Santas bring to their patients, ensuring health and happiness for all. Merry learning to all, and to all a good surgery! 🎅🔬