Ipofisectomia transfenoidale nel cane

Transsphenoidal hypophysectomy is an effective therapy for the treatment of pituitary adenomas; although few veterinary hospitals suggest this therapeutic option. The surgical technique is performed through a transoral, transsphenoidal approach with the complete removal of the pituitary gland. In case of macroadenomas the surgeon aims to remove most of the neoplastic tissue to improve and prolong the life of the patient. Advanced diagnostic imaging is necessary to obtain a precise localisation of the fossa hypophysalis as well as detailed information about the shape, siye and extent of the neoplasia. Despite the difficulties in the management of the patient, the percentage of reported perioperative mortality is low (8-16%), as well as the percentage of relapses. The latter increases recurrence rate raises in case of macroadenoma. The purpose of this review is to analyse the surgical technique and the management of the patient in the perioperative period. A. learning curve for the execution of surgery and for the perioperative management by different specialists is necessary.