Laparoscopic Ovarian Cystectomy: Minimally Invasive Treatment

What is an Ovary?

All females have two ovaries on either side of their uterus. These ovaries are present in the human body for the development and maturation of eggs. In medical terms, the egg is called the "oocyte." These eggs fuse with the sperm cell to give birth to human babies. However, there are chances that the ovaries, the container of the eggs, form a cyst within themselves. These cysts are sacs filled with fluid on the surface or inside them.

Symptoms of an Ovarian Cyst:

An ovarian cyst is common; most are harmless and fade away without treatment or within a few months. Nonetheless, there can be unfortunate times when ovarian cysts can become enlarged and potentially malignant. The following are the symptoms of severe cases of ovarian cysts:

· Pelvic discomfort: A person suffering from an ovarian cyst might experience constant or intermittent pain. The intensity of this pain may range from mild and dull to sudden and sharp.

· Irregularities with the menstrual cycle: An ovarian cyst will likely disrupt the average hormonal balance of an otherwise healthy body and lead to undesirable changes in the menstrual cycle.

· Pain during intercourse: When the cysts are particularly large or located close to the reproductive organs, the person will experience discomfort during sexual intercourse. 

What is a Laparoscopic Ovarian cystectomy?

When a person is experiencing any of the above-mentioned symptoms and has been examined to conclude that they indeed have an ovarian cyst, it becomes imperative to opt for methods to get rid of it. Laparoscopic Ovarian Cystectomy is a surgical procedure used to remove an intruding ovarian cyst. The cysts that are particularly large and highly likely to be cancerous are the ones that are targeted under this procedure. This method ensures the woman remains fertile while guaranteeing the cyst does not cause untoward, uncorrectable loss.

What happens during Laparoscopy?

Being a minimally invasive surgical technique, the surgeon first makes small incisions in the patient's abdomen, usually around the naval area. Then the abdominal cavity is filled with carbon dioxide, allowing the surgeon to perform their work inside the body. A small, lighted, telescope-like instrument called the laparoscope is inserted through one of the incisions. This flexible and thin instrument provides a clear view of the inside of the pelvic organs on a monitor for the surgeon.

After a thorough observation of the cyst provided on the monitor, the surgeon will insert surgical tools into the incision to remove the cyst from the nearby ovaries and fallopian tubes. There are cases where the cyst might rupture during the surgery. In other cases, the surgeon might drain the cyst before removing it from the ovary. After the cyst has been successfully removed, the surgeon will close the incision with stitches, and in most cases, the patient can be discharged from the hospital on the same day. Within a week or two after the procedure, the patient can return to work and resume light activities. However, certain cases may vary.

Pros and Cons of Laparoscopic Ovarian Cystectomy:

Some of the advantages of opting for a laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy are:

· Minimally invasive: As compared to all the other open surgeries that are present as alternatives to this, laparoscopic surgery is the least invasive procedure. This means it requires minor cuts, resulting in less tissue trauma, less blood loss, and a substantial decrease in postoperative pain. 

· Swift recovery: Due to the relatively smaller size of the incisions required in this procedure, the recovery time after the completion of the procedure is shorter, and thus, patients can return to their normal activities much earlier than expected. This also leads to the early discharge of patients from the hospital wards. Another benefit of this surgery is the decreased scarring caused by the minor cuts on the abdomen, which would have otherwise been much more pronounced in the case of open surgery. 

· While the advantages of this procedure are immense, some potential disadvantages ought to be known before one decides to go through it.

· Depends on the surgeon's expertise: This procedure's success depends upon the surgeon's expertise. It requires plenty of experience and delicacy since the internal organs of a body are to be maneuvered effectively.

· Internal injury: Patients with a previous history of abdominal surgery or who are overweight fall under more significant risks of internal injury during the process or surgical complications. Internal injury includes injury around the organs, infection, bleeding, or even reactions to anesthesia.

Keeping both of these in mind, a potential patient must discuss all the benefits and risks associated with the procedure with their healthcare provider before finalizing the most appropriate procedure for a particular ovarian cyst. Consultation is the first step towards health since they look at your specific case and provide the most curated insight, which is essential for an informed decision. 

Conclusion:

In conclusion, laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy is a highly effective and minimally invasive treatment option for ovarian cysts. This procedure offers numerous benefits, including a shorter recovery time, minimal scarring, and reduced postoperative pain. If you are in need of expert guidance and specialized care, Dr. Shubhra Goyal at Bliss Women's Clinic is a highly skilled consultant obstetrician and gynecologist who can provide the highest quality of care for your condition. Make an appointment today to discuss your options and receive personalized treatment.

Also Read: Gynae Laparoscopy: Minimally Invasive Gynecological Procedure – Dr. Shubhra Goyal