Abstract: ObjectiveTo observe the incidence and mechanism of postoperative hypoxemia in the patients after transsphenoidal pituitary tumor resection.Methods579 postoperative patients in postanesthesia care unit (PACU) in March, 2009～June, 2010 were investigated retrospectively using PACU databank. The incidence and mechanism of hypoxemia were analyzed.ResultsThe incidence of hypoxemia was 5.2%. Upper airway obstruction, change of breath mode, residual effects of anesthetics, bronchiospasm, aspiration, acute pulmonary edema and lung disease were the main reasons of postoperative hypoxemia after transsphenoidal pituitary tumor resection.ConclusionCareful monitor and treatment are the key to prevent hypoxemia after transsphenoidal pituitary tumor resection.

Key words: pituitary tumor, hypoxemia, etiology