Ovarian Cyst Surgeries

Ovarian Cyst Surgeries

Ovarian cysts seen in women are classified into two types: benign (non-cancerous) and malignant (cancerous). The types of ovarian cysts, cancer risk, and treatment options may vary depending on whether they occur during adolescence, the reproductive age, or menopause. Ovarian cysts generally develop without symptoms, but when symptoms do occur, they may cause discomfort such as bloating and indigestion.

Ovarian cysts that naturally occur during ovulation or the menstrual cycle, which usually regress and are benign, are called functional cysts. Follicular cysts, which form due to a failure in ovulation and cause fluid buildup inside, are typically 3-10 cm in size and may appear in multiple instances. These types of ovarian cysts are also included in this group. If the ultrasound images of these cysts are clear, containing only fluid, and without cauliflower-like protrusions, it indicates that they may be benign functional cysts. Instead of deciding to perform surgery, follow-up during subsequent menstrual cycles may be preferred.

The most important imaging tool for diagnosing ovarian cysts is ultrasound. In necessary cases, blood tests for tumor markers may be performed if the doctor deems it necessary, or an MRI may be used for further support. Not every cyst requires an MRI. It is requested only in suspicious situations where the doctor finds it necessary for evaluation.

Ovarian Cyst Surgeries

Chocolate (endometriotic) cysts are among the most common special cysts seen during the reproductive period and occur in one in every ten women in the fertility age. When it comes to surgical intervention for these cysts, a more selective approach is usually taken, especially since most patients have plans for motherhood. For this reason, surgery is not immediately recommended for chocolate cysts by specialists. However, if the patient experiences severe pain, surgery may be required and become the preferred method of intervention. If the cyst is very large, such as 9-10 cm, and is causing pressure on the patient, surgical intervention may be preferred. On the other hand, if the cyst is smaller, like 5 cm, and there is no suspicious irregularity on ultrasound with a homogeneous appearance, it may be monitored instead. This is because chocolate cysts are known to recur even after successful surgery, and surgery may sometimes reduce ovarian reserve. For these reasons, whenever possible, based on ultrasound appearance, especially if the patient desires and plans to have children, surgery may be avoided, and the cyst may be followed.

Ovarian cyst surgeries can be performed using various techniques:
Laparoscopic Cystectomy: In this method, a laparoscope with a light source and camera is inserted into the abdomen. The cyst or cysts are visualized and removed through the laparoscope. This method is less invasive, and as a result, the recovery process is generally quicker.

Laparotomic Cystectomy: This method is typically preferred for large or high-risk cysts. A larger incision is made in the abdominal area to remove the cyst. This technique is more invasive, and the recovery time may be longer.

Salpingo-oophorectomy: If the cyst is tightly associated with ovarian tissue, this procedure is done to remove the ovarian tissue as well. This method is more commonly chosen when there is suspicion of cancer or if cancerous cells are detected.

Before an ovarian cyst surgery, your doctor will evaluate several factors to determine the most appropriate treatment approach. The recovery process after surgery varies depending on the type of surgery, the type of cyst, and individual factors. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions for rest, medication use, and other recommendations during the post-operative period.

For more detailed information and support requests regarding these operations, please feel free to contact us using the contact number provided for our clinic.

Ovarian Cyst Surgeries
Ovarian Cyst Surgeries