What Is a Pituitary Tumor?

The pituitary gland is a small but powerful hormone-regulating gland located at the base of the brain, just behind the sinuses. Because of its location, pituitary tumors are often managed by ENT sinus surgeons working closely with neurosurgeons and endocrinologists.

Important facts for patients:

• Most pituitary tumors are benign (noncancerous)
• Many grow slowly
• Some cause no symptoms at all
• Early expert evaluation is key

Do All Pituitary Tumors Require Surgery?

No. Treatment depends on several factors, including:

• Tumor size
• Hormone activity
• Vision changes
• Growth over time
• Overall health

Many patients seen by our sinus doctors in North Haven, New Haven, and Branford do not need immediate surgery.

When Surgery is NOT Needed for a Pituitary Tumor

Surgery may not be required when a pituitary tumor:

✔ Is Small and Not Growing

• Often discovered incidentally on MRI
• Causes no pressure on nearby structures

✔ Does Not Affect Vision

• No compression of the optic nerves
• No visual field loss or double vision

✔ Responds Well to Medication

Certain hormone-producing tumors—especially prolactinomas—can often be treated successfully with medication alone.

✔ Can Be Safely Monitored

In these cases, patients undergo:

• Periodic MRI scans
• Hormone blood tests
• Vision exams

This approach, called active surveillance, is commonly recommended by experienced ENT specialists.

When Is Pituitary Tumor Surgery Recommended?

Surgery may be necessary when a tumor:

✔ Causes Vision Problems

Because the pituitary gland sits close to the optic nerves, tumors can cause:

• Blurred vision
• Loss of side (peripheral) vision
• Visual field defects

✔ Causes Hormone Imbalances Not Controlled by Medication

Some tumors continue producing excess hormones despite treatment.

✔ Is Large or Growing

Larger tumors (macroadenomas) may cause:

• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Hormonal deficiencies

✔ Requires Specialized Skull Base Access

This is where expert sinus and skull base surgeons play a critical role.

Minimally Invasive Pituitary Surgery Through the Nose

At ENT Medical and Surgical Group, pituitary tumors are often treated using endoscopic endonasal surgery, a modern technique performed through the nasal passages.

Benefits include:

• No facial incisions
• No open brain surgery in many cases
• Improved visualization using high-definition cameras
• Faster recovery and less postoperative discomfort

This advanced approach is performed by a collaborative team of ENT sinus surgeons and neurosurgeons, offering patients in North Haven, New Haven, Branford and surrounding areas access to leading-edge care close to home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are pituitary tumors cancerous?

 Most pituitary tumors are benign and noncancerous.

Can pituitary tumors be treated without surgery?

 Yes. Many can be managed with medication or monitoring.

Which doctor treats pituitary tumors?

 Care often involves an ENT sinus/skull base surgeon, neurosurgeon, and endocrinologist.

Expert Sinus and Skull Base Doctors in North Haven, New Haven, & Branford, Connecticut

Not all pituitary tumors need surgery—but all require expert evaluation.

If you are experiencing symptoms or have been diagnosed with a pituitary tumor, contact ENT Medical and Surgical Group to schedule an appointment with experienced sinus and skull base specialists. They can help determine the safest and most effective treatment plan.