Ovarian Cyst Removal

Overview

Ovarian cysts are relatively common, but surgical treatment depends on whether or not you wish to maintain fertility, and also the condition of the cyst.

Why Have Ovarian Cyst Removal

Since the vast majority of ovarian cysts and masses in pre-menopausal patients are benign, laparoscopy is a great option for many patients. Minimally invasive procedures allow patients to avoid large, open incisions for the removal of their cysts, thereby decreasing hospital stays, recovery times, and pain. Laparoscopy is of significant benefit for these patients as well, since it will prevent an open surgery, and recovery from open surgery can be increasingly difficult for older women. Women who have laparoscopic cystectomy are discharged from the hospital the same day, with excellent pain control and rapid recovery. Most patients are back to work within seven days.

What You Can Expect

Masses of all sizes can be removed laparoscopically. Typically, one or two tiny (1/4 inch) incisions and one slightly larger (3/4 inch) incision are necessary for a cystectomy. The smaller incisions are located at the belly button and on the far right or left side in the bikini line. The larger incision is located just above the pubic bone. The larger incision is used to remove the cyst.

In order to remove the cyst from the body, the cyst is placed in a special bag. This allows for easy removal and prevents fluid from the mass from spilling into the pelvic cavity.