What is Cystectomy?

Cystectomy, also known as ovarian cyst removal, is a surgical procedure to remove fluid-filled sacs known as cysts from the ovaries. An ovarian cyst is a follicle in the ovaries that is larger than 2 centimetres that usually develops due to disordered ovulation where the follicle fails to release the egg. These follicles expand due to fluid secretion and become cystic over time. Persistent cysts that are bigger than 4 centimetres often have to be removed surgically. They rarely present any signs or symptoms, but these cysts can cause abnormal bleeding and pain.

Cystectomy can help remove cysts and preserve fertility, but there are chances of new masses or cysts to re-form over time. This risk can be eliminated only by surgically removing the ovaries in a procedure known as oophorectomy.

Why is a Cystectomy performed?

Before a cystectomy, the doctor will confirm the presence of ovarian cysts using an ultrasound. The procedure is often performed to remove ovarian cysts and rule out possibilities of ovarian cancer. There are other purposes for a cystectomy procedure, such as:

• Removal of abnormal masses in the ovaries
• Removal of abnormally solid cysts that do not contain fluid
• Removal of a cyst that has not responded to non-surgical treatment methods
• Removal of symptomatic cysts that cause pain or abnormal bleeding
• Removal of ovarian cysts in patients who are pre-menstrual, postmenopausal or using birth control pills

How is a Cystectomy performed?

Depending on the size of the mass or cyst, there are two methods that can be followed during a cystectomy. In case of small-sized, benign cysts, a laparoscopic technique is most suitable. A small incision is made near the navel and carbon dioxide gas in introduced into the abdominal cavity to expand the area. The laparoscope is introduced and specialised surgical tools are used to remove the cyst.

In case of large cysts that show signs of being cancerous, the surgeon may perform a procedure known as laparotomy. During this procedure, large incisions are made in the abdominal area that allow the surgeon to remove the cyst as well as affected ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, fatty tissue and surrounding lymph nodes.

Talk to our experienced gynaecologists today for details on risk factors and treatment of ovarian cysts.