Patient Success Story

Stephanie Stanton is a local mother of two who faces challenges head-on, but when her vision became progressively blurry and doubled in early 2024 as a result of a pituitary tumor, she was afraid of what might come next.

Diagnosed with the tumor in 2019, Stephanie worried about surgery. But as her vision and persistent headaches became worse, she knew she needed a path forward.

Recognizing the Symptoms of a Pituitary Tumor

“I had blurred vision, and I was really thirsty. I thought it was just my diabetes,” Stephanie shared. “But then my vision got really bad. I had a follow-up with Dr. O’Dea and told her.”

Stephanie’s family physician, Dr. Christine O’Dea, Chair, Family and Community Medicine at UC Health, knew that her symptoms required further investigation and worked with her to not only seek the care she needed but also ensure that Stephanie was comfortable with the plan.

In early 2024 optometrist Dr. Derek Heimlich performed a comprehensive exam and found that the tumor was causing the visual changes. “The doctor told me something was on my eye nerve,” Stephanie recalled. “He said he wasn’t sure what it was and recommended an MRI.”

The MRI scan revealed a tumor on Stephanie’s pituitary gland was pressing against her optic nerve, threatening her sight and potentially her overall health.

Overcoming Fear: Preparing for Pituitary Tumor Surgery

When Stephanie learned that surgery was her best option, she was overwhelmed. “I was terrified,” she admitted. “I had never had any kind of surgery before, other than as a kid. I was nervous.”

Dr. O’Dea reassured Stephanie and introduced her to Dr. Norberto Andaluz, a renowned neurosurgeon at UC Health known for his expertise in minimally invasive procedures and compassionate approach to care.

A Multidisciplinary Approach to Pituitary Tumor Treatment

Dr. Ahmad Sedaghat, an expert rhinologist, anterior skull base surgeon, and a key member of Stephanie’s team, also instilled confidence in her.

“When I talked to Dr. Sedaghat, he said [Dr. Andaluz is] a very good surgeon, one of the best, and UC Health is lucky to have him, so I was more comfortable and followed through with surgery,” recalls Stephanie.

“One of the advantages that we have at UC Health is that our skull base surgery comprises the top experts in the field. Working with team members like Dr Andaluz, an internationally renowned and phenomenally talented neurosurgeon, is a pleasure while also allowing us to provide top-notch care for our patients,” said Dr. Sedaghat.

“When I met Dr. Andaluz, I started to feel more comfortable,” Stephanie said. “He explained everything in a way that made sense. It takes me a while to get to know and be comfortable with people.”

Dr. Andaluz said, “One of the big challenges with Stephanie’s case was to make her feel comfortable. Despite her deteriorating condition requiring intervention, her main hurdles were fear and anxiety. After lengthy discussions, she was able to open up about her fears and eventually agreed to surgical intervention, and Dr. O’Dea was instrumental in that decision-making process. Patient confidence and understanding of expected symptoms and steps in postoperative care are key to success. Together, we could walk with Stephanie throughout those stages, which she navigated with absolute confidence.”

Stephanie’s mother also played a pivotal role in easing her fears. “My mom researched everything about the doctors and the surgery. But to find out I had an amazing team behind me, I felt safe,” Stephanie said.

A Life-Changing Surgery

Dr. Andaluz collaborated closely with other specialists, including Dr. Sedaghat, to ensure the most comprehensive approach to Stephanie’s surgery and her recovery and care moving forward. On June 4, 2024, Stephanie underwent a delicate surgery to remove the tumor on her pituitary gland,

A Minimally Invasive Solution

The procedure was performed using advanced imaging and minimally invasive techniques, ensuring precision and a faster recovery. The operation was a success.

Dr. Andaluz said, “We chose a minimally invasive route through the nose, as with most pituitary surgeries. Having Dr. Sedaghat work with me on Stephanie’s case was a blessing, as his skills in rhinology are superb. His attention to detail and respect for tissue make a significant difference in patient symptoms after surgery and in the long term.

Dr. Jana’s team, perhaps the least visible but most important in the postoperative phase, ensured a smooth postoperative transition to everyday life. All this added to Stephanie’s successful surgical outcome, and I believe that the collaborative work from this team of stars whom I have the fortune to work with, from the beginning to the end of Stephanie’s disease journey, distinguishes us.”

The Road to Recovery: Regaining Vision After Pituitary Surgery

“Immediately after surgery, I could see a difference,” Stephanie said. “I got my vision back, and I wasn’t light-headed. My daughter will be 16 in April, and my son will be 11. I still have a long way to go seeing them. I was terrified about becoming blind.”

The recovery process wasn’t without its challenges, but Stephanie remained optimistic. “The first week was tough,” she admitted. “I had headaches but just kept getting better and better."

A Message of Encouragement

Today, Stephanie’s vision is nearly back to normal. She wears glasses for minor corrections but can once again enjoy the essential joys of life, including clearly seeing her children's faces.

“I am thrilled to see Stephanie’s improvement in symptoms so quickly after surgery.  Her vision improved almost immediately, and she felt much better after the surgery.  It is a pleasure to work as part of a team with such wonderful colleagues in neurosurgery, ENT, and endocrinology to provide excellent care for patients with complex, challenging medical problems.”, said Dr. O’Dea.

Her care journey will continue with UC Health, and Dr. Suman Jana, a leading endocrinologist, is part of the multidisciplinary team that will continue to monitor her pituitary function and hormone levels post-surgery.

Her advice to others facing medical uncertainty is heartfelt and straightforward: “If you have doubts, go for it. Your life is important. Do it for yourself, go for your family, and don’t be scared.”

Stephanie’s Message: Finding Hope Through Expert Neurological Surgery

Stephanie’s story is a testament to the power of teamwork, trust, and the life-changing care the UC Health team provided. At UC Health, expert care and compassionate support change lives and futures—one patient at a time.