Transseptal transsphenoidal hypophysectomy.

The usual surgical approach to the sella turcica is via a labial sulcus incision over the nasal spine with continuation backward to the nasal septum and sphenoid sinus. In our series of 25 transsphenoidal hypophysectomies, a primary transseptal approach was used, avoiding the oral incision. The operating time was reduced, and the visualization was adequate. The morbidity associated with the labial sulcus incision was also avoided. The surgical approach and results are discussed.