The use of infraorbital nerve block for postoperative pain control after transsphenoidal hypophysectomy

Objectives: The transsphenoidal approach for pituitary resection is often used for a suprasellar tumor. The use of infraorbital nerve block for pain control in the postoperative period is described in this case report. Case report: An 11-year old male was scheduled for a transsphenoidal approach to a pituitary tumor. After induction of general anesthesia and placement of an endotracheal tube, bilateral infraorbital nerve blocks (maxillary division of the trigeminal nerve) were performed using an intraoral approach. This block was repeated at the conclusion of surgery. The patient was very comfortable in the postoperative period without need for additional analgesia. Conclusions: Bilateral infraorbital nerve blocks may provide adequate pain control following transsphenoidal hypophysectomy. The avoidance of opoids may allow better neurological examination following major neurosurgical procedures.