Which postoperative instruction is advised after transsphenoidal hypophysectomy to minimize complications?

Which postoperative instruction is advised after transsphenoidal hypophysectomy to minimize complications?

• A. Avoid Sneezing
• B. Drink Through a Straw
• C. Cough Forcefully
• D. Wash Mouth Out With Peroxide

Answer: (A)

After transsphenoidal hypophysectomy, protecting the skull-base repair and avoiding rises in intracranial pressure is essential to prevent complications like CSF leak and meningitis. Sneezing causes a rapid, intense spike in nasal and intracranial pressure that can stress the surgical site and disrupt the closure. By avoiding sneezing, the risk of CSF rhinorrhea and infection is reduced, making it the best postoperative instruction for minimizing complications. Drinking through a straw or coughing forcefully would also raise pressure and strain healing, while mouth rinsing with peroxide isn’t a standard protective measure and could irritate tissues. The focus is on avoiding sudden pressure changes that threaten healing.

After transsphenoidal hypophysectomy, protecting the skull-base repair and avoiding rises in intracranial pressure is essential to prevent complications like CSF leak and meningitis. Sneezing causes a rapid, intense spike in nasal and intracranial pressure that can stress the surgical site and disrupt the closure. By avoiding sneezing, the risk of CSF rhinorrhea and infection is reduced, making it the best postoperative instruction for minimizing complications. Drinking through a straw or coughing forcefully would also raise pressure and strain healing, while mouth rinsing with peroxide isn’t a standard protective measure and could irritate tissues. The focus is on avoiding sudden pressure changes that threaten healing.