Transsphenoidal approach to sellar and surrounding region:comparison of endoscopic anatomy and microsurgical anatomy

Objective To compare the difference in exposure via microscopic transspenoidal approach with that via endoscopic transsphenoidal approach. Methods 10 formalin-fixed adult cadaver heads were injected with colored silicone rubber. 5 head specimens were dissected by endoscopic transsphenoidal approach, the other 5 head specimens were dissected through microscopic transsphenoidal approach. Results In sphenoid sinus, more surrounding structures were observed under endoscope through transsphenoidal approach, sellar floor, cavernous sinus and tuberculum sellae were determined easily. To expose subdural structures, lateral wall of cavernous sinus in lateral, olfactory nerves and rectal gyri in front were revealed under endoscope. Conclusions Compared with microsurgical transsphenoidal route, endoscopic transsphenoidal procedure provides a wider exposure in sellar and surrounding region.