Endonasal transsphenoidal pituitary surgery: is tumor volume a key factor in determining outcome?

PURPOSE This study was conducted to evaluate the role of tumor volume in excision of pituitary adenomas. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 20 patients with pituitary adenoma underwent surgical excision of the tumor by endonasal transsphenoidal approach. RESULTS A preoperative tumor volume of more than 5 mL is associated with a 90.90% probability of residual tumor (P < .05, statistically significant). CONCLUSION Tumor volume as a predicting factor for the surgical outcome is an evolving concept. Other factors determining the efficacy of tumor removal are parasellar and suprasellar extension.