Transsphenoidal Pituitary Surgery, Sleep Apnea, and Pneumocephalus: Is there a Link?

Abstract

Objective: Patients undergoing transsphenoidal (TSS) pituitary tumor surgery are spared a large craniotomy but left with an anterior skull base defect, which prohibits the use of positive pressure ventilation. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can be seen in patients with pituitary tumors and is treated with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). The objective of our study was twofold: (1) To document the incidence of OSA in patients undergoing TSS pituitary tumor surgery, and (2) to report the incidence of pneumocephalus in patients undergoing TSS pituitary tumor surgery and subsequent postoperative outcomes.