Preservation of Olfactory Function Following Endoscopic Single-Nostril Transseptal Transsphenoidal Surgery

Objective Olfactory dysfunction is a significant postoperative complication related to endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery (TSS). This study aimed to determine the impact of endoscopic TSS on olfactory function. Methods We conducted a prospective study of 32 patients with sellar or parasellar tumors who were treated with endoscopic TSS between December 2013 and October 2016. TSS was performed via a right transseptal approach. We performed the Toyota and Takagi olfactometer test and the venous olfaction test for the evaluation of olfactory function preoperatively and at 1 and 3 months postoperatively. Results The results of the Toyota and Takagi test showed that olfactory function deteriorated in 4 of 32 (12.5%) patients 1 month postoperatively and improved to preoperative baseline levels in all patients 3 months after the procedure. Olfactory function deteriorated in 1 of 31 (3.2%) patients 3 months after the procedure. The venous olfaction test revealed no response in 1 of 31 (3.2%) patients 1 month postoperatively, with no improvement 3 months after the procedure. Conclusions Endoscopic single-nostril transseptal TSS for sellar or parasellar tumor resection has minimal impact on olfactory function.