Ovarian Cyst

Treatment options for ovarian cysts

Most ovarian cysts will resolve without intervention, with symptoms improving within a few weeks or months. However, there are occasions when treatment, whether surgical or non-surgical, is needed. This may be in cases where the cyst persists after several menstrual cycles, is abnormally large or growing, has potential for malignancy, or in women approaching or post-menopause. Treatment may also be necessary if the cyst ruptures.

Surgical Ovarian Cyst Treatment

Laparoscopic Cystectomy

Using laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy, ovarian cysts can be removed from either one or both of the ovaries in a minimally invasive manner. To access and remove the cysts, small incisions are made in the lower abdomen, unlike the traditional open method. In addition to reducing blood loss and discomfort, the laparoscopic approach also improves cosmetic outcomes and speeds up the recovery process for patients. Here is a step-by-step guide to the laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy procedure:

Step 1- In order to ensure complete sedation and pain prevention throughout the procedure, general anaesthesia is administered to the patient.

Step 2- In the lower abdomen, the surgeon makes small incisions near the belly button and around the pubic bone once the patient is sedated.

Step 3- For better visibility of the organs, carbon dioxide gas is introduced into the abdomen. The surgical team then inserts a thin tube with a camera through small incisions to view the internal structures on a screen and perform the surgery precisely.

Step 4- A laparoscope is used to view the cysts and ovaries on the screen. Surgical instruments are passed through the other incisions to perform the necessary procedures.

Step 5- Cysts are carefully removed and collected using special instruments and retrieval bags.

Step 6- After the incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures, the patient is taken to the recovery room.

Depending on the individual case and the surgeon's technique, the specific details of the procedure may vary. The healthcare provider provides the patient with a personalised treatment plan.

Open-Cut Cystectomy

An open-cut ovarian cystectomy is a conventional procedure used to eliminate ovarian cysts. This technique requires a substantial incision in the abdomen to reach and extract the cyst. In contrast, advanced laparoscopic surgery offers a less invasive option. While laparoscopic surgery is generally the preferred method for treating ovarian cysts, there are instances where open surgery may be required for safety purposes and to achieve desirable results. Here is an overview of the steps involved in performing an open cystectomy:

Step 1- A general anaesthesia is administered to sedate the patient on the operating table.

Step 2- A large abdominal incision is made, usually 10 to 15 cm, in the lower abdomen. The exact location and size of the incision may vary depending on the size and location of the cyst.

Step 3- The layers of the abdominal walls are separated to expose the ovarian cyst by using retractors and surgical instruments.

Step 4- Cyst characteristics, such as size and location, are examined by the surgeon.

Step 5- A cyst is then removed from the ovary, either by aspirating or dissecting it into smaller pieces.

Step 6- A cyst is then removed from the ovary, either by aspirating or dissecting it into smaller pieces.

Oophorectomy

A surgeon may sometimes suggest an oophorectomy or 'ovary removal' procedure in very rare cases. An oophorectomy is typically suggested when ovarian damage is present, such as ovarian torsion caused by cysts, and one or both ovaries must be removed. There are two ways to perform an oophorectomy:

1. Laparotomy- During this procedure, the ovaries are removed through a large incision in the abdomen, resulting in an open surgical procedure. Compared to the less invasive techniques, this requires a longer recovery period and has a higher risk of complications.

2. Laparoscopy- The surgeon uses a laparoscope to view the internal structures of the body. They make small incisions (1 to 2 cm) during this procedure to remove the ovaries. This procedure involves less blood loss, scarring, and pain.

3.Vaginal- The procedure involves removing the ovaries through the vagina and is generally performed along with a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus).