Endoscopic Skull Base and Pituitary Center
The Endoscopic Skull Base and Pituitary Center at Washington Hospital,
part of the
Taylor McAdam Bell Neuroscience Institute, utilizes the latest generation of endoscopic technology combined with
minimally invasive surgical techniques. Our mission is to make the care
and recovery for patients with pituitary tumors both faster and easier.
The center offers high-quality, effective treatment for patients resulting
in the best possible outcomes.
Under the direction of renowned neurosurgeon, Sandeep Kunwar, MD, the program
treats patients using techniques that promote faster, less painful recovery
and require a shorter hospital stay.
Conditions We Treat
The treatment options available at the center offer patients relief from
the effects of different types of pituitary tumors including:
- Cushing's disease
- Acromegelia hypopituitarism
A Faster Recovery
Using an endoscopic skull base procedure, surgeons reach the surgical
site through the natural openings in the face. This makes recovery much
easier for the patient. The procedure usually takes about three hours
and most patients are discharged from the hospital within one or two days.
Innovation and Teamwork
The endoscopic skull base approach is a minimally invasive technique,
which enables the physician to access the tumor through the sphenoid sinus,
an air space behind the nose. Using a high-powered magnifying instrument
called a fiberoptic endoscope, our physicians are able to view and remove
the tumor through a ½-inch incision. This is a major turnaround
from traditional approaches, such as craniotomy, which requires opening
the skull to reach the tumor.
Throughout the treatment process, our expert team of physician and nurse
specialists with other health care professionals, works closely with referring
physicians to optimize outcomes and give patients the best possible experience.
More Information for Patients and Families
Informed patients are able to make better decisions about their own health
care. The following links give you access to more information about many
neurological diseases and conditions:
Pituitary Network Association
http://www.pituitary.org/links/
National Brain Tumor Foundation
http://www.braintumor.org/
American Brain Tumor Foundation
http://hope.abta.org/site/PageServer lt;/a>
Brain Tumor Society
http://www.tbts.org/
Visit www.gammaknifeprogram.com for more information, to schedule an appointment
or to ask questions.