Trans-Sphenoid Approach to the Sella Turcica
The sublabial trans-sphenoid approach to the sella turcica is a straight path from the gingivolabial sulcus (the groove between the upper lip and the gum) to the face of the sphenoid sinus.  A small incision is made in the gingivolabial sulcus and the nasal septum is moved to the side.  The anterior wall of the sphenoid sinus is opened.  The sella turcica is also opened and the tumor is removed.  The septum is finally replaced in the midline and the incision is closed with absorbable sutures.
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The sphenoid sinus is a bony cavity lined with mucosa and filled with air.  It is located behind the roof of the nose. 

The sella turcica (Turkish saddle) is a spherical bony cavity located in the roof of the sphenoid sinus.  It contains the pituitary gland.  Whenever there is a tumor in the pituitary gland, the sella turcica enlarges and protrudes into the sphenoid sinus.
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Sublabial Approach
Fluoroscopy  (C-Arm) is used to monitor the progress of surgery
This page was last updated on: August 9, 2010
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Sagittal MRI Image of a Pituitary Adenoma.
The yellow arrow depicts the path of the trans-sphenoid approach from the mouth to the sella turcica.
Pictures

Pictures of Pituitary and Trans-sphenoid Surgery

Pituitary Adenomas

Picture of Pituitary Adenoma

Trans-sphenoid Anatomy

Endoscopic Picture of Sphenoid Rostrum

Post-op

Informed Consent

Sphenoid Mucocele

Pictures of Sinus Conditions and Procedures

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