Are you awake for transsphenoidal surgery?

Endocrinologists are the medical specialists that deal with glands and hormones. You may also have your vision checked before surgery. Endoscopic pituitary surgery is usually done under general anesthesia, so you will be asked to stop eating and drinking after midnight on the night before surgery.

Are you awake during pituitary surgery?

It makes important chemicals called hormones. Your body uses these hormones for many functions, including growth, sexual development, reproduction, and metabolism. (Metabolism is the way your body uses food for energy.) You will be asleep during the surgery.

Is pituitary tumor surgery painful?

The cuts the doctor made (incisions) may be sore for about 5 days after surgery. You may also have numbness and shooting pains near your wound, or swelling and bruising around your eyes. As your wound starts to heal, it may start to itch. Medicines and ice packs can help with headaches, pain, swelling, and itching.

How safe is transsphenoidal surgery?

Most people who have transsphenoidal surgery will have a sinus headache and congestion for up to a week or 2 after surgery. If surgery causes damage to large arteries, to nearby brain tissue, or to nerves near the pituitary, it can lead to brain damage, a stroke, or blindness, but this is quite rare.

How long does Transsphenoidal surgery take?

The procedure itself usually takes about three hours. Patients go to the recovery room for two to three hours after the surgery and are then admitted to the hospital floor. There is no need to stay in an Intensive Care Unit.

How long are you in the hospital after pituitary tumor surgery?

Recovery Time at the Hospital A typical hospital admission for patients undergoing pituitary tumor surgery lasts 2 to 3 days; overnight in the intensive care unit (ICU) and 1or 2 more on the nursing floor.

How do you sleep after pituitary surgery?

Sleeping: Sleeping with your head elevated on pillows may help decrease headaches. Keep it elevated at least 30 degrees for 10 days after surgery if you were told there was a cerebro-spinal fluid (CSF) leak after surgery. Use a humidifier at night to keep your nasal membranes moist if needed.

What can I expect after transsphenoidal surgery?

After surgery you may experience nasal congestion, nausea, and headache. Medication can control these symptoms. An endocrinologist may see you the day after surgery to check that the pituitary gland is producing appropriate levels of hormones. If it is not, hormone-replacement medications may be given.

How long does it take to recover from Transsphenoidal surgery?

A. Most patients recover from the surgery in two to three weeks. Some people return to work sooner than that. As noted above, however, patients with Cushing’s disease can have a prolonged period of recovery, so some patients are out of work longer.

What can you not do after pituitary surgery?

Avoid strenuous activities, such as bicycle riding, jogging, weightlifting, and aerobic exercise, for 1 to 2 weeks. If you had surgery through your skull: Try not to lie flat when you rest or sleep for the first 1 to 2 weeks after surgery.

Which position is recommended after transsphenoidal surgery?

Pain following pituitary surgery is usually readily controlled by this medication. Do not be afraid to take a pain pill if you are uncomfortable, especially when going to bed at night or awakening in the morning. Sleeping with your head elevated (on at least 2 pillows) helps decrease pain and swelling.