When is Oophorectomy Performed?

The surgeon may remove an ovary and fallopian tube due to the following conditions:

• Cysts, abscesses, or benign tumors
• Reduce the risk of ovarian, breast, and uterine cancer
• Endometriosis
• Pelvic infection
• Ectopic pregnancy
• Ovarian torsion
• Lynch syndrome
• BRCA gene mutations

In ovarian torsion, the ovary twists around its blood supply, leading to severe pain.

When the cancer is confined to one ovary and fallopian tube, the gynecologist may suggest unilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. After bearing children, the doctor may recommend the removal of the remaining fallopian tube, ovary, and uterus.

Preparing for the Surgery

The gynecologist will perform a physical exam and suggest blood tests, urine tests, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Surgery Procedure

Unilateral Salpingo - Oophorectomy can be performed in three ways.

Open Surgery or Laparotomy

The gynecologist administers general anesthesia to the person and makes a big incision in the abdomen or pelvis. The surgeon removes the ovary and fallopian tube through the hand. The incision is stitched, stapled, or glued.

Laparoscopic Surgery

In a minimally invasive procedure, the surgeon makes small incisions ranging from 1-2 cm around the navel to remove the ovary and fallopian tube. A laparoscope is a tube containing a tiny lens, camera, and light source inserted into the incision that helps the surgeon operate the area through the images on the video monitor. Laparoscopic surgery carries a smaller risk of infection when compared to open surgery. People undergoing laparoscopic surgery recover faster.

Robotic Surgery

The surgeon uses robotic arms to perform the surgery. The robotic arm comprises a high-resolution camera whose precise movements allow the surgeon to locate the ovary and fallopian tubes. After the surgery, the incisions are closed.

Care after surgery

Generally, unilateral salpingo-oophorectomy is an outpatient procedure unless the patient opts for open surgery. The doctor may prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection and painkillers to avoid pain. After waking up, you will be encouraged to walk, which will help in preventing blood clots. Avoid carrying heavy weights or indulging in strenuous exercise for a few weeks. The doctor might let you know when to take a bath and resume sexual activity. Laparoscopic and robotic surgeries cause less pain and scarring when compared to open surgery, which could take six to eight weeks for recovery.

Side Effects of Surgery

Although the unilateral salpingo-oophorectomy is a safe procedure, as with any surgery, it carries some risks too that include:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Injury to the urinary tract and surrounding organs
• Formation of scar tissue
• Bowel obstruction
• Hernia
• Nerve damage
• Blood clots

Rush to the doctor if you notice any of the below signs:

• Fever
• Nausea or vomiting
• Chest pain
• Fainting
• Redness or swelling in the incision site
• Excessive vaginal bleeding
• Severe abdominal pain
• Foul-smelling discharge
• Difficulty in bladder or bowel movements
• Shortness of breath
• Drainage or opening of the wound

To get excellent results from unilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, consult an expert gynecologist at Matrix Hospital.