Laparoscopıc Cystectomy
Laparoscopic cystectomy is a surgical procedure for removing ovarian cysts using the laparoscopy method. This procedure is a minimally invasive surgical technique performed with smaller incisions compared to traditional open surgeries, allowing for faster recovery and reduced postoperative pain.
When is Laparoscopic Cystectomy Performed?
- Ovarian cysts: Typically benign but can grow large, causing pain, infertility, or other health issues.
- Endometriotic cysts (Chocolate cysts): Cysts caused by endometriosis.
- Dermoid cysts: Usually benign cysts containing various tissues (fat, hair, etc.).
- Simple cysts: Fluid-filled cysts that are generally harmless but may enlarge and cause discomfort in some cases.
What is the Laparoscopic Cystectomy Procedure?
Laparoscopic cystectomy procedures involve surgical interventions for ovarian cysts or masses in women. It is a type of surgery where cysts are removed using laparoscopy. During this procedure, doctors also perform various examinations on ovarian cysts to assess potential risks at the cellular level.
One of the most critical aspects of this procedure is the closed surgery technique, which involves removing high-risk cells and obtaining diagnostic findings. In laparoscopic procedures, the primary goal is to operate with minimal risk to the uterus and surrounding tissues, making small incisions. A camera is inserted into the patient’s abdomen to observe and examine the risk-bearing cells.
How is Laparoscopic Cystectomy Performed?
- Several small incisions are made in the abdominal area.
- A laparoscope (a camera-equipped instrument) is inserted through these incisions to examine the internal organs.
- The cyst is carefully removed from the ovary using surgical instruments.
- After the cyst is removed, the ovary is usually preserved, allowing it to maintain its functions.
This method is chosen based on the size and type of the cyst, as well as the patient’s overall health condition. Compared to open surgery, laparoscopic cystectomy carries fewer risks and offers a shorter recovery period.
Why is Laparoscopic Cystectomy Important?
In laparoscopic cystectomy, the size of the ovarian cyst plays a significant role in determining the treatment and surgical approach. Cysts larger than 7 cm, those that do not shrink, or those causing severe pain and discomfort usually require surgical removal. This is because leaving these cysts untreated may increase the risk of complications. In some cases, uncontrolled cell growth may lead to cancer. If left untreated, these cysts can spread further.
Who Should Undergo Laparoscopic Cystectomy?
Laparoscopic cystectomy can be performed on patients of all ages. However, larger cysts in the ovary may pose higher risks, necessitating different medical interventions. If there is a suspicion of cancer, alternative surgical approaches may be more appropriate. Laparoscopic cystectomy is a procedure performed under general anesthesia, meaning the patient remains fully asleep during the operation. During the procedure, a small incision is made in the abdomen, and carbon dioxide gas is used to inflate the abdominal cavity, improving visibility of internal organs. Then, 2-3 small incisions are made to assess the cyst’s condition.
Are There Any Risks in Laparoscopic Cystectomy? What Should Be Considered?
During this procedure, utmost care is taken to avoid damaging the ovary or fallopian tubes. The meticulous approach is necessary due to the delicate structure of the female reproductive organs. Additionally, if the cyst is attached to surrounding organs, this may increase surgical risks. One of the major concerns during surgery is the potential rupture of the cyst. Once all necessary steps are completed, the cyst is removed.
At the end of the operation, the abdominal incisions are closed. Although laparoscopic cystectomy is a safe surgical procedure, there are some potential risks. Patients should be informed about possible complications before the surgery. Laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy is also used to treat ovarian cysts, making it one of the commonly performed laparoscopic procedures.
What Types of Cysts Are Treated with Laparoscopic Cystectomy?
Specifically, ovarian cysts are sac-like formations in the ovaries of women. Ovarian cysts can develop in any woman who has not yet reached menopause. Most of these cysts form during the menstrual cycle and are considered a normal physiological occurrence. However, ovarian cysts can also develop in postmenopausal women and may take different forms.
Physiological cysts are those that form during the ovulation process. When the egg is released from the ovary, a small corpus luteum cyst forms. If the egg is not fertilized, the cyst naturally breaks down after 14 days.
Pathological cysts, on the other hand, result from excessive cell growth in the ovaries. These cysts are generally benign and small. Pathological cysts are more common in menopausal women. Most ovarian cysts are endometriotic, also known as chocolate cysts, which are non-cancerous. Their name comes from the dark, melted chocolate-like appearance of old blood within the cyst.
What is the Recovery Period After Surgery?
After surgery, patients may experience mild pain around the navel. Bruising in this area is also common and considered normal. Since gas is used to inflate the abdomen during the procedure, some patients may feel shoulder and back pain on the first postoperative day. In some cases, vaginal discharge or spotting may occur. All these symptoms are temporary and gradually improve over time.