Cushing’s Disease ~ Pituitary Surgery
Endonasal Approach to Pituitary Surgery
My surgeon, Dr. Adam Mamelak, from Cedars-Sinai Medical Center wrote a great article for their recent newsletter about pituitary surgery. He discusses transphenoidal pituitary surgery and the two most commonly used approaches: sublabial and endonasal. I underwent the endonasal approach for my two surgeries nearly three years ago. I did not experience any pain with this approach. (I understand that the sublabial approach can be very painful and it is often necessary to pack the nose for up to three days.) Lesson here is to be sure that your pituitary surgeon is very skillful and familiar with both approaches before you decide what is best for YOU.
Cushing’s disease occurs in about 1-2 people per million! However, it is extremely common in dogs.
Tags: CSRF, disability, rare disorders
I have just been diagnosed with Cushing’s Disease after undergoing tons of testing for the 1.5 yrs. I have been told I have had this for over 10 years. I have almost all the symptoms and the most common 100 lbs of belly fat around my middle which Ihave gain since 2001. I have a tumor on my Pituitary and nodules on both my Adrenal glands. have a PET Scan scheduled next week hen will be off to consult with neurosurgeon to remove the tumor. I am loking for the best of the best in a surgeon. Any recommendations? Do you feel your surgery was successful? Would you make the same choice knoing what you know now?
Susan, Yes and Yes. I certainly feel that my suregeries were a success and I would make the same choice. You definately want a great surgeon, one who is very experienced in pituitary surgery. I don’t know where you live but my surgery was at Cedars Sinai in CA. Your insurance will dictate that as well. The one great thing that I can tell you is that I did NOT EXPERIENCE ANY PAIN AT ALL. The worst thing was drawing blood samples from my arms. I never had a headache or anything. You need to take care of the tumor ASAP as you seem to know.
You sound like you are on the right track with everything you need to do. Listen to your ENT, find an experienced surgeon, be patient with yourself, let your family help you through this, pray, and know that you will be okay. Believe in Miracles.
Let me know how it all goes. My best wishes go with you.
Kathie