After transsphenoidal hypophysectomy, which statement about postoperative airway management is true?

After transsphenoidal hypophysectomy, which statement about postoperative airway management is true?

• A. CPAP is routinely used
• B. CPAP is contraindicated due to risk of epistaxis
• C. Intubation is never necessary postoperatively
• D. Oxygen therapy alone suffices

Answer: (B)

After transsphenoidal hypophysectomy, protecting the nasal/sphenoidal surgical repair is essential. The operation passes through the nasal passages and often leaves nasal packing to prevent a CSF leak. Giving CPAP would push continuous positive pressure through the nasal route, which can cause epistaxis, dislodge nasal packing, and jeopardize the skull base repair, increasing the risk of a CSF leak or meningitis. Because of this risk, CPAP is avoided in the immediate postoperative period. Oxygen therapy via a face mask or nasal cannula is typically used to manage oxygenation, and airway management is guided by the patient's status and surgeon preference. Intubation is not routinely required for every patient postoperatively, but may be necessary if airway protection or ventilation is needed.

After transsphenoidal hypophysectomy, protecting the nasal/sphenoidal surgical repair is essential. The operation passes through the nasal passages and often leaves nasal packing to prevent a CSF leak. Giving CPAP would push continuous positive pressure through the nasal route, which can cause epistaxis, dislodge nasal packing, and jeopardize the skull base repair, increasing the risk of a CSF leak or meningitis. Because of this risk, CPAP is avoided in the immediate postoperative period. Oxygen therapy via a face mask or nasal cannula is typically used to manage oxygenation, and airway management is guided by the patient's status and surgeon preference. Intubation is not routinely required for every patient postoperatively, but may be necessary if airway protection or ventilation is needed.