Laparoscopic Ovarian Cystectomy

An ovarian cyst is a condition in which a sac, filled with fluid or semisolid material, is developed inside or on the surface of one or both ovaries. Ovaries are the small organ present in the pelvic region in women. There are also different types of cysts that are normal and harmless. If a cyst is not related to any disease, it is known as a functional cyst. A functional cyst is formed each month during ovulation. Functional cysts shrink in size within 60 days without any treatment. Sometimes, ovarian cysts may cause complications, especially when they ruptured. Surgical interventions became more advanced and less invasive.  Laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy is one of those minimally invasive procedures which is performed to remove cysts from ovaries.

Benefits of Laparoscopic Ovarian Cystectomy

1.  It is a minimally invasive procedure  which is less painful
2. one can easily return to work

Why is this procedure done?

The procedure of laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy may be performed to treat and solve the following symptoms of ovarian cyst:-

1. Sharp pain in the lower abdominal region on the side of the cyst
2. Fullness or heaviness in your abdomen
3. Pain during intercourse and during the menstrual period
4. Bloating in your lower belly
5. Experiencing a dull ache in your back

The procedure of laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy

1. The patient is asked to be in a modified dorsal lithotomy position (A position in which the upper body rests on the bench and both the legs are raised above the ground using support).
2. A small cut is made near the naval for inserting the laparoscope.
3. A laparoscope (a thin, flexible tube having a camera and a light source at the tip) is then inserted into the abdomen through this cut.
4. A needle is inserted about 2 centimetres above the symphysis pubis (a region below the urinary bladder where the two hip bones joints). A laparoscope is used to guide and confirm the aspiration of the cyst.
5. A long artery forceps is then inserted into the abdomen for holding the affected ovary. Then the artery is pulled gently to the outside (at the surface of the incision). 
6. The ovary is handled carefully, and gentle traction is applied to avoid injury to the ovary.
7. The opening of the abdominal incision is temporarily closed using a rubber seal. It is done to prevent the seeping of cystic fluid into the abdominal cavity.
8. Then, the surgeon will dissect the cyst from the ovary.
9. The ovary is again suspended back into the abdominal cavity after removing the rubberised seal.
10. Then the instruments are taken out and sealed using a suture.

What to expect before laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy. 

1. Before starting surgery, the doctor will prescribe some tests to know the exact condition of the cyst. So, for this doctor will order some tests like:-
2. Ultrasound: It is done to visualise the ovaries.
3. CT scan: It is used to obtain the cross-section image of the body's internal organs.
4. MRI scan: It uses magnetic fields to obtain in-depth pictures of internal organs.
5. The doctor will ask you not to drink anything after midnight before surgery.
6. Doctors will also provide a list of medicines that you should not take before surgery.

What to expect on the day of laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy. 

1. Try to reach the hospital at least two hours before the surgery.
2. In the pre-operative area, the staff will assess your old medical reports. They will also record your vital signs like heart rate and blood pressure.
3. The staff will ask the patient to change into a surgical gown.
4. You need to read and sign the informed consent form to provide your consent for anaesthesia and surgery. 
5. An intravenous line will be placed on your arm. It will be used to deliver the medicines during surgery.

What to expect during surgery? 

1. The whole procedure is done under the effect of general anaesthesia. Therefore the patient will not feel any pain or other sensations during the entire surgery.
2. During the surgery, the assistant doctors continuously record all the vital signs like blood pressure, pulse rate, and heart rate. 
3. Air is used in the abdominal cavity to increase the space between the abdominal wall and internal organs.
4. If any medication is required during the surgery, it is provided through the intravenous line on the arm of the patient.
5. A tube will be inserted into the throat of the patient to facilitate breathing.