Endoscopic transnasal approach to the pituitary lesions using navigation system (InstaTrak System).

Abstract

Endoscopic transnasal approach has become a procedure of choice for the surgical management of pituitary lesions. However, in conventional endoscopic transnasal surgery, the surgeon may become disorientated to the actual operating position. In our series, 47 patients have undergone an endoscopic transnasal approach to the pituitary with the use of the navigation system called InstaTrak for real-time imaging. This image guidance system proved valuable for anatomical localization during pituitary surgery. We have reduced the average surgical time, and improved patient outcome. As a consequence, complications during surgery should decrease and safety should increase. Intra-operative image guidance is expected to have major advantageous effects on pituitary surgery by allowing the surgeon to remove lesions more efficiently. As this system is improved technically and surgeons become more proficient in their use, there should be better postoperative outcomes.