An ovarian cystectomy is a surgical procedure to remove a cyst from one or both ovaries while preserving the healthy ovarian tissue. It is commonly performed to treat cysts that are causing pain, discomfort, or affecting fertility.
Why Is an Ovarian Cystectomy Performed?
- To remove cysts that are large, persistent, or causing pain.
- To evaluate and remove complex cysts that could be cancerous.
- To treat endometriomas (cysts caused by endometriosis).
- To improve fertility if the cyst is affecting ovulation.
- To prevent complications such as ovarian torsion or rupture.
Procedure Overview
- Preparation:
- Avoid eating or drinking for at least 8 hours before the procedure.
- A pregnancy test and imaging (ultrasound or MRI) may be performed before surgery.
- You may need to stop taking blood thinners and certain medications before surgery.
- During the Procedure:
- The procedure can be performed laparoscopically (minimally invasive) or through an open abdominal incision.
- Laparoscopic Cystectomy:
- Small incisions are made in the abdomen.
- A camera and surgical instruments are inserted.
- The cyst is carefully separated from the ovary and removed.
- The ovary is repaired, and the incisions are closed.
- Open Cystectomy:
- A larger incision is made in the abdomen.
- The cyst is removed under direct visualization.
- The ovary is repaired, and the incision is closed with sutures.
- The procedure typically lasts 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the cyst.
- Aftercare:
- You may stay in the hospital for a few hours (laparoscopy) or 1 to 2 days (open surgery).
- Pain and discomfort are common for the first few days and can be managed with medication.
- Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for at least 2 to 4 weeks.
- Most women can return to normal activities within 1 to 2 weeks after a laparoscopic cystectomy.
- Follow-up with your doctor to monitor healing and confirm that the cyst was benign.
Possible Risks and Complications
- Infection at the incision site.
- Bleeding during or after surgery.
- Damage to nearby organs such as the bladder or bowel.
- Formation of scar tissue (adhesions) in the pelvis.
- Recurrence of ovarian cysts.
- Loss of the ovary if the cyst cannot be separated from the ovarian tissue.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Will I lose my ovary if I have a cystectomy?
In most cases, the ovary can be preserved. However, if the cyst is very large or malignant, removal of the ovary may be necessary.
2. How long does it take to recover from an ovarian cystectomy?
Recovery from a laparoscopic cystectomy takes about 1 to 2 weeks, while recovery from an open cystectomy may take 4 to 6 weeks.
3. Can cysts come back after a cystectomy?
Yes, new cysts can develop, especially if they are hormone-related.
4. Will an ovarian cystectomy affect my ability to get pregnant?
In most cases, fertility improves after the removal of cysts. However, if ovarian tissue is damaged, fertility could be affected.
5. Is an ovarian cystectomy painful?
You may experience mild to moderate pain for a few days after surgery, but pain relief is typically manageable with medication.
6. Are ovarian cysts always cancerous?
No, most ovarian cysts are benign. A biopsy is performed if there is concern about malignancy.
7. Can I get pregnant immediately after an ovarian cystectomy?
You may need to wait 1 to 2 months before trying to conceive to allow the ovary to heal properly.