Surgery for Ovarian Cysts

When an ovarian growth or cyst needs to be closely looked at, a surgeon can do so through a small incision using Reference laparoscopy Opens New Window or through a larger abdominal incision (Reference laparotomy Opens New Window). Either type of surgery can be used to diagnose problems such as Reference ovarian cysts Opens New Window, Reference adhesions Opens New Window, Reference fibroids Opens New Window, and pelvic infection. But if there is any concern about cancer, you may have a laparotomy. It gives the best view of the Reference abdominal organs Opens New Window Reference Opens New Window and the Reference female pelvic organs Opens New Window Reference Opens New Window. Then, if the doctor finds ovarian cancer, he or she can safely remove it.

During surgery, a noncancerous cyst that is causing symptoms can be removed (cystectomy), leaving the ovary intact. In some cases, the entire ovary or both ovaries are removed, particularly when cancer is found.

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