Laparoscopic Ovarian Cystectomy Surgery
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop on or inside the ovaries. While many cysts are harmless and go away on their own, some may cause pain, irregular periods, or fertility issues, requiring medical intervention.
Laparoscopic Ovarian Cystectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to remove ovarian cysts while preserving the ovary. It’s an advanced and safe option for women experiencing persistent symptoms or cysts that appear abnormal on ultrasound.
Why is it Needed?
This surgery is recommended when:
- Cysts cause pain, bloating, or discomfort.
- The cyst is large or suspicious.
- Cysts are linked to infertility or endometriosis.
- Hormonal treatments have failed to resolve the cysts.
Key Benefits:
- Minimally invasive approach for faster recovery.
- Preserve fertility by protecting healthy ovarian tissue.
- Suitable for both functional and pathological cysts.
When is Surgery Recommended?
Laparoscopic Ovarian Cystectomy is suggested when ovarian cysts cause persistent symptoms or show signs of complications. Here’s when surgery becomes necessary:
1. Persistent Symptoms:
- Chronic pelvic pain or lower abdominal discomfort that doesn’t improve with medication.
- Irregular periods or heavy bleeding affect daily life.
- Painful intercourse or pain during urination or bowel movements.
2. Large or Growing Cysts:
- Cysts larger than 5–6 cm that may rupture or twist (torsion), leading to severe pain and an emergency situation.
3. Suspected Endometriosis or Cancerous Changes:
- Cysts linked to endometriosis (chocolate cysts) or with solid components that need evaluation for cancer.
4. Fertility Issues:
- Women facing difficulty in conceiving due to cysts affecting ovulation or tubal blockage.
5. Hormonal Therapy Failure:
- Cysts that don’t shrink with hormonal medications or keep recurring.
6. Emergency Situations:
- Ruptured cysts causing internal bleeding or ovarian torsion requiring immediate intervention.
Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications.
Laparoscopic Ovarian Cystectomy Procedure – What to Expect?
Laparoscopic Ovarian Cystectomy is a simple and safe procedure performed under general anaesthesia. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand the process:
Before Surgery:
- Pre-operative Tests:
- Blood tests, pelvic ultrasound, or MRI to evaluate the size and type of the cyst.
- Pregnancy test to rule out pregnancy.
- Fasting Instructions:
- You’ll need to avoid food and drinks for 6–8 hours before the surgery.
- Medication Adjustments:
- Your doctor may ask you to stop certain medications like blood thinners a few days before surgery.
- Consent and Counseling:
- The procedure, risks, and recovery process will be explained in detail, ensuring all your concerns are addressed.
During Surgery:
- Anesthesia:
- You’ll be under general anaesthesia, so you’ll be asleep and pain-free.
- Small Incisions:
- 2–3 tiny cuts (5–10 mm) are made in the abdomen.
- Insertion of Instruments:
- A laparoscope (a thin tube with a camera) is inserted to view the cyst and surrounding tissues.
- Cyst Removal:
- The cyst is carefully removed without damaging the ovary.
- Endometriotic cysts or adhesions are also treated if required.
- Closure:
- The cuts are closed with stitches or surgical glue.
After Surgery:
- Recovery Room Monitoring:
- You’ll be observed for a few hours and may go home the same day or stay overnight if needed.
- Post-Surgery Care:
- Mild pain or bloating is common and subsides within a few days.
- Light activities can be resumed within 1–2 weeks.
- Follow-up Appointment:
- A follow-up visit is scheduled to monitor healing and discuss any further treatments if required.
This minimally invasive approach ensures faster recovery, minimal scarring, and better outcomes.
Benefits of Laparoscopic Ovarian Cystectomy
Laparoscopic Ovarian Cystectomy offers several advantages over traditional open surgery, making it the preferred choice for ovarian cyst removal.
1. Minimally Invasive Procedure
- Small Incisions: Only tiny cuts are made, reducing pain and scarring.
- Less Blood Loss: Lower risk of bleeding during surgery.
- Faster Healing: Minimizes damage to surrounding tissues, promoting quicker recovery.
2. Faster Recovery Time
- Most women can return to normal activities within 1–2 weeks.
- Suitable for those who want to resume work or daily routines quickly.
3. Preserves Ovarian Function and Fertility
- The procedure removes only the cyst, leaving the healthy ovarian tissue intact.
- Ideal for women planning for future pregnancies or facing fertility challenges.
4. Effective Diagnosis and Treatment
- Allows real-time evaluation of cysts and surrounding organs.
- Treats associated conditions like endometriosis or adhesions during the same procedure.
5. Lower Risk of Complications
- Reduced Infection Rates: Minimal handling of tissues reduces the risk of infection.
- Less Scarring: Smaller cuts mean better cosmetic results and fewer chances of internal adhesions.
6. Suitable for Different Types of Cysts
- Works well for both functional and pathological cysts.
- Also effective for endometriomas and dermoid cysts.
- Less Blood Loss: Lower risk of bleeding during surgery.
- Faster Healing: Minimizes damage to surrounding tissues, promoting quicker
recovery.
2. Faster Recovery Time
- Most women can return to normal activities within 1–2 weeks.
- Suitable for those who want to resume work or daily routines quickly.
3. Preserves Ovarian Function and Fertility
- The procedure removes only the cyst, leaving the healthy ovarian tissue intact.
- Ideal for women planning for future pregnancies or facing fertility challenges.
4. Effective Diagnosis and Treatment
- Allows real-time evaluation of cysts and surrounding organs.
- Treats associated conditions like endometriosis or adhesions during the same
procedure.
5. Lower Risk of Complications
- Reduced Infection Rates: Minimal handling of tissues reduces the risk of infection.
- Less Scarring: Smaller cuts mean better cosmetic results and fewer chances of
internal adhesions.
6. Suitable for Different Types of Cysts
- Works well for both functional and pathological cysts.
- Also effective for endometriomas and dermoid cysts.
With a laparoscopic surgeon in Jaipur, Dr. Pankhuri Gautam, you are in safe and expert hands for your ovarian cyst treatment.
FAQs About Laparoscopic Ovarian Cystectomy
Q 1. Is the surgery painful?
Ans: No, the procedure is done under general anesthesia, so you won’t feel any pain during the surgery. Mild discomfort or bloating after surgery is common but can be easily managed with medications.
Q 2. How long does recovery take?
Ans: Most women can resume light activities within 1–2 weeks and return to normal routines in 4–6 weeks. Recovery time may vary depending on the size of the cyst and your overall health.
Q 3. Will the surgery affect my fertility?
Ans: No, the surgery is designed to preserve ovarian function. In fact, it can improve fertility by removing cysts that interfere with ovulation or egg release.
Q 4. Can cysts come back after surgery?
Ans: In some cases, functional cysts may recur, especially if you have hormonal imbalances or PCOS. Regular follow-ups and hormonal therapy may help prevent recurrence.
Q 5. Is the surgery safe?
Ans: Yes, laparoscopic surgery is a safe and widely performed procedure with a low risk of complications when done by an experienced surgeon like Dr. Pankhuri Gautam.
Q 6. How do I prepare for the surgery?
Ans: Your doctor will recommend:
- Pre-surgery tests like ultrasound and blood work.
- Fasting for 6–8 hours before surgery.
- Stopping certain medications, if required.
Q 7. What happens if my cyst is cancerous?
Ans: If the cyst appears suspicious, it will be sent for biopsy during surgery. In such cases, further treatment options will be discussed after the results.