Laparoscopic Oophorectomy

Understanding Laparoscopic Oophorectomy

Laparoscopic oophorectomy is a keyhole surgery procedure used to remove one ovary (unilateral oophorectomy) or both ovaries (bilateral oophorectomy). This advanced technique allows for the removal of ovaries with smaller incisions compared to traditional open surgery.

Reasons for the Procedure

There are several reasons why your doctor might recommend a laparoscopic oophorectomy:

Ovarian cysts that are large, persistent, or potentially cancerous
Endometriosis affecting the ovaries
Ovarian torsion (twisting of an ovary)
Ovarian cancer or high risk of ovarian cancer
Hormone-sensitive breast cancer (removal of both ovaries)
Severe pelvic pain originating from the ovaries

The Laparoscopic Oophorectomy Procedure

Here’s what you can expect during a laparoscopic oophorectomy:

You’ll be given general anaesthesia to ensure you’re comfortable throughout the procedure.
The surgeon makes small incisions (usually 0.5-1 cm) in your abdomen.
A laparoscope (a thin tube with a camera) and specialised surgical instruments are inserted through these incisions.
Your abdomen is inflated with carbon dioxide gas to create space for the surgeon to work.
The surgeon locates the ovary (or ovaries) using the laparoscope.
The ovary is carefully separated from surrounding tissues and blood supply.
The ovary is removed through one of the small incisions, sometimes using a special bag to ensure safe removal.
If both ovaries are being removed, the process is repeated on the other side.
Finally, the small incisions are closed with stitches.

Benefits of the Procedure

Compared to traditional open surgery, laparoscopic oophorectomy offers several advantages:

Smaller scars
Less postoperative pain
Shorter hospital stay (often just overnight)
Quicker recovery time
Lower risk of infection
Less blood loss during surgery

Suitable Candidates

This procedure may be suitable for you if:

You have a condition affecting your ovaries that requires their removal
You are at high risk of ovarian cancer and choose preventive surgery
Your overall health allows for laparoscopic surgery

Your doctor will assess your individual case to determine if this is the best option for you.

Recovery Process

Recovery from laparoscopic oophorectomy is typically quicker than open surgery:

Most women go home the same day or the day after surgery
You can usually return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks
Full recovery typically takes about 3-4 weeks

You may experience some pain and light vaginal bleeding for a few days after the procedure, which is normal.

Important Considerations

If both ovaries are removed before menopause, you will experience surgical menopause. Your doctor will discuss hormone replacement therapy options with you.
Removal of ovaries will affect your fertility. If you’re concerned about this, discuss fertility preservation options with your doctor before the surgery.
In some cases, the surgeon may need to switch to an open surgery during the procedure if complications arise.

FAQs

Surgical menopause happens when a woman has both of her ovaries removed through surgery, which is known as a bilateral oophorectomy. This leads to an immediate end to the production of hormones like estrogen and progesterone, causing menopause to occur suddenly instead of gradually.
Reasons for Surgical Menopause
Cancer Prevention: Women with a family history of ovarian or breast cancer may choose this surgery to reduce their risk.
Other Conditions: It may also be done for recurrent ovarian cysts or benign tumors.
Effects and Symptoms
After the surgery, women may experience symptoms similar to natural menopause, but they often feel more intense due to the sudden hormonal changes. Common symptoms include:
Hot flashes
Night sweats
Vaginal dryness
Mood swings
Health Risks
Surgical menopause can increase the risk of certain health issues because of the rapid drop in hormones:
Bone Health: Lower estrogen levels can lead to weaker bones and a higher risk of osteoporosis.
Heart Health: The lack of estrogen may increase the risk of heart disease.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Doctors often recommend hormone replacement therapy (HRT) after surgical menopause, especially for younger women. HRT can help manage symptoms and reduce long-term health risks associated with low hormone levels. However, it’s essential to discuss the benefits and risks with a healthcare provider.