Unilateral septal technique for transsphenoidal microsurgical approach to the sella turcica

Abstract

A modification of the transseptal, transsphenoidal approach to the sella turcica is described; it consists of a unilateral separation of the nasal mucosa from the nasal septum. Experience with the technique in 215 [human] cases indicated that it is a useful, practical approach. The advantages are that the septum is spared, reoperation is made easier, and the procedure is quicker than the bilateral septal procedure. Asymptomatic nasal septal perforations (< 3 mm) were seen in 8 of 215 cases, and represented the only complication related to the operation.