Ovarian cystectomy is a surgical procedure used to remove cysts from the ovaries. The goal of ovarian cystectomy surgery in Mumbai is to safely remove cysts while preserving as much healthy ovarian tissue as possible. Knowing what happens during the procedure can help women feel more informed and comfortable with their decision to treat their ovarian cysts. Through this blog, let us understand what happens during ovarian cystectomy surgery. But, before we proceed, let's get into what ovarian cystectomy is.

What Is Ovarian Cystectomy?

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form on or inside the ovaries. More often, these cysts are benign, and they typically resolve on their own. However, when cysts are larger, symptomatic, or exhibit concerning characteristics, surgery may be required.  The idea is to remove the cyst while protecting fertility and production of hormones.

How to Prepare for Ovarian Cystectomy Surgery?

Before the surgery, the surgeon will go through your symptoms, medical background, and imaging tests (such as ultrasound or MRI) to determine if cystectomy is the right choice for you. On the day of surgery, you will receive anesthesia to prevent you from any discomfort. Most often, you will receive general anesthesia (you will be completely asleep), although less frequently, you may have local or regional anesthesia, depending on your situation. For more information about ovarian cystectomy surgery, get in touch with the best gynaecologist in Mumbai. 

What Happens During the Procedure?

1. Preparation and Anesthesia

You will lie flat on the operating table, where anesthesia will be given to you. The surgical team will take time to clean your skin to avoid any risk of infection.

2. Making Incisions

During the laparoscopic procedure, your surgeon will make three or four small cuts into the lower abdomen. The surgeon will use the small cuts to place a camera and instruments inside of your abdomen. The surgeon will also place carbon dioxide gas inside of your abdomen to have a better view of your organs.

3. Finding and Removing the Cyst

The surgeon will find the cyst on your ovary, and then using specialized instruments, they will separate the cyst from healthy ovarian tissue by directing the instruments that are seen on the camera. The cyst will then be removed through one of the small cuts. If needed, it can be sent for further testing in the laboratory (for example, cancer testing). For open surgery, the surgeon would make a larger cut into the abdomen to find and remove it and then repair the ovary to maintain healthy ovarian tissue.

4. Repair and Closing

After the cyst is taken out, your ovary may be stitched to prevent bleeding and keep its proper shape. The surgeon will also examine the nearby organs and check for infection or bleeding. The camera and instruments will be removed, and the openings will be stitched. Lastly, band-aids will be placed to cover the skin.

5. Recovery Room

Following the operation, you will wake up in the recovery area. Nursing staff will monitor your vital signs and help manage any discomfort you may experience. Most women will go home within a few hours if laparoscopic cystectomy was performed. If the procedure was open surgery, you may require an overnight hospitalization.

How is Recovery After Ovarian Cystectomy?

Your recovery will vary based on the type of surgery. Post-operatively, you will be provided with detailed instructions from your surgeon concerning specific pain control methods, wound care, activity limitations, etc.  Laparoscopic surgery is associated with less postoperative pain, better scarring, and a faster return to activity, generally, in two to three weeks.  Recovery from open surgery has a longer recovery time, generally six to eight weeks, and you may have restrictions on certain levels of physical activity or lifting. Always listen to your doctor for the best healing.

What to Expect After Ovarian Cystectomy Surgery?

Most women will experience some level of discomfort and possibly mild pain following the procedure. You can expect tenderness in the incision sites. All of these symptoms are usually resolved within a few days. The doctor will tell you when you can resume sexual activity and exercise as well as other activities. Call your doctor immediately if you have a high fever, any sign of infection, heavy bleeding etc.

What are the Possible Complications that Might Occur?

Like any other surgical procedure, there are some risks associated with ovarian cystectomy, although serious complications are rare. Risks include infection at the site of the incision, bleeding during or after the surgery, injury to nearby organs, such as the bowel or bladder, formation of scar tissue, etc. It is necessary to discuss the risks associated with surgery with your physician before the procedure.

Consult the top gynaecologist at Dr. Chaitali Mahajan Trivedi to get ovarian cystectomy surgery

To learn more about ovarian cystectomy surgery in Mumbai, get in touch with Dr. Chaitali Mahajan Trivedi at Nanavati Superspeciality Hospital. To know how much the surgery costs, consult the expert gynaecologist today.