Ovarian cysts are often discovered during routine pelvic exams or through imaging tests like a pelvic ultrasound. Testing for ovarian cysts is a crucial step in diagnosing and managing this condition.
To determine the nature and treatment needs of a cyst, your doctor may recommend several tests based on the cyst’s size and whether it’s fluid-filled or solid.
If you’re seeking expert care and advice from an ovarian cyst removal surgeon in Melbourne, please call us.
Most ovarian cysts (functional cysts) resolve spontaneously over time, these are normally followed-up through serial pelvic ultrasound. However, other ovarian cysts such as dermoid cysts, endometriomas or large cystadenomas will require surgical excision, most commonly through laparoscopic (key-hole) surgery.
Ovarian cystectomy refers to the removal of an ovarian cyst while preserving the ovary, especially in women who desires fertility.
In some cases, removal of the entire ovary (oophorectomy) is recommended over the removal of the ovarian cyst:
In most cases, only one of the two ovaries is removed to preserve hormonal function, even in post-menopausal women. Each decision would be considered and tailored carefully to each individual woman.
Ovarian cysts of all sizes can be removed laparoscopically. The tumour (cyst) is removed from the surrounding normal ovarian tissue, and is then placed in a special bag for removal from the body via the key-hole incisions. This allows the procedure to be performed in a minimally invasive way, reducing the risks of an open surgery. Robotic technologies may be utilised as robotic surgery offers enhanced vision, accuracy and dexterity. In selected cases, Dr Kuswanto also utilises the da Vinci SP (Single Port) system, allowing the entire procedure to be completed through a single small incision, further minimising scarring and enhancing recovery.
In many cases, robotic surgery replaces the need for open surgery (with larger cut in the abdomen), therefore:
Robotic or laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy should be performed by specialist gynaecologists who have completed additional training either in minimally invasive gynaecology surgery, or in surgical gynaecological oncology in order to learn techniques and procedures to complete the most complex surgeries with lower complication rates and quicker recovery period. They also perform higher volume of more complex cases.
Kent is available to see his private patients in Epworth Freemasons in East Melbourne. He also consults in Box Hill and Werribee.
Hormonal contraceptives like birth control pills prevent you from ovulating, which can help stop some ovarian cysts from forming. However, they won’t reduce the size of any cysts you already have. Many ovarian cysts are not hormone related and will not be affected by any hormonal medications.
Link to AGES Patient Information Video on Laparoscopic Ovarian Cystectomy.
Dr Kent Kuswanto is an expert in complex gynaecological pelvic surgery and minimally invasive gynaecology surgery, including robotic surgery.
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