Ovaries are a vital part of a female reproductive system, their main function being production of eggs and regulating the menstrual cycle. When the ovaries are affected with certain diseases like fibroids or suspicion of cancerous change in the ovary, it is indicated to get the ovaries surgically removed. The procedure involving the surgical removal of the ovary (single or both) is termed as oophorectomy. Oophorectomy can also be done as a part of major surgery involving the removal of uterus (hysterectomy).
What are the indications of oophorectomy surgery ?
Oophorectomy is a surgical procedure involving the removal of one or both the ovaries which are an essential part of the female reproductive system. Oophorectomy is indicated for the below mentioned patients.
- Patients which have a genetic predisposition to develop ovarian cancer
- An abscess or infection in the ovaries which cannot be medically treated
- Ovarian cysts or non cancerous growths
- Endometriosis
- Structural defect in the ovary
- Ovarian cancer
- Breast cancer ( as a prophylactic treatment)
If you are affected with any symptoms like abdominal discomfort, abnormal menstrual bleeding or pelvic pain it is essential to seek consultation with a gynecologist to identify the underlying pathology to decide the best suited treatment for you.
How do you know if oophorectomy surgery is indicated for you?
If you are experiencing the above mentioned symptoms it is advised to seek consultation with a gynecologist to see if there is a possibility of a disease in the ovaries. The consulting specialist will conduct a complete and thorough physical examination guided by adjuncts like ultrasonography, CT and MRI scan. After complete evaluation of your symptoms and condition the doctor will suggest if oophorectomy surgery is the suggested treatment for you.
In certain patients oophorectomy surgery is also done as a prophylactic procedure in patients who are at an increased risk of ovarian cancer. Also in patients who are at increased risk of breast cancer as it is regulated by the hormones produced by the ovaries.
When you should not get an oophorectomy surgery done?
Oophorectomy is usually not indicated at a pre-menopausal age as removal of ovaries leads to early menopause which in turn could lead to weak and brittle bones (increased risk of osteoporosis) . Literature also suggests that women whose ovaries are functional till menopausal age have better survival rates and lower chances of cardiac diseases.
What are the types of oophorectomy surgeries ?
Oophorectomy can be broadly classified as;
- Unilateral oophorectomy surgery: when only one ovary is removed
- Bilateral or total oophorectomy surgery: when both the ovaries are removed
- Salpingo-oophorectomy surgery: removal of fallopian tubes along with the ovaries
- Laparoscopic oophorectomy surgery: A minimally invasive procedure for removal of ovaries
Does oophorectomy surgery require anesthesia?
Yes, Oophorectomy is mostly performed under general anesthesia.
What happens during an oophorectomy surgery?
The doctor will make you lie down on your back on the operating table with your legs spread apart. The anesthetist will administer anesthesia and sedation if required. In the traditional oophorectomy technique the surgeon will give few incisions on the abdomen below the navel to gain access to the ovaries which are then surgically removed.
Advanced minimally invasive technique includes usage of a laparoscope where very small incisions are made in the abdomen when are then used to gain access to the ovaries which are then removed. But, laparoscopic procedures are not indicated for all patients, so it is essential to ask your doctor if the procedure is indicated for you.
Sometimes oophorectomy is done along with removal of uterus (hysterectomy) or along with removal of fallopian tubes ( salpingo-oophorectomy).
What care has to be taken after oophorectomy surgery ?
After the effect of anesthesia wears off the doctor and concerned nurse will shift you to a recovery room. The average length of the stay may be 2-3 days after the procedure but depends on the type of procedure and your overall health. The recovery period is shorter in case of a minimally invasive procedure. Most women can return to routine activities within a span of six weeks. Until then the doctor might ask you to restrict yourself from any strenuous work, sports, sexual activity or use of tampons to avoid any complications.
Can you get pregnant after oophorectomy surgery ?
You cannot conceive or get pregnant after a bilateral oophorectomy surgery so ask your doctor prior to the procedure about the fertility risks associated with oophorectomy surgery. Pregnancy is possible with unilateral oophorectomy and assisted reproductive technology in case of bilateral oophorectomy surgery.
What are the possible complications of oophorectomy surgery ?
The removal of ovaries causes drastic reduction and stoppage of production of hormones like progesterone and estrogen that regulated many vital functions. Potential complications can include bleeding, clotting of blood, infection at the site of surgery. Anesthesia related complications may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache and abdominal discomfort. Rare complications may include damage to vital organs like bladder, uterus, hernia and deep vein thrombosis.
What is the outcome of oophorectomy surgery ?
Oophorectomy is a procedure which has both prophylactically and prognostically helped may women who are at an increased risk of cancer or who are affected with ovarian cancer. Since it is a major surgical procedure it is of utmost importance to seek consultation with a specialist to see if oophorectomy is indicated for you after evaluation of risks and benefits of the procedure.
How to find gynecologists for oophorectomy surgery ?
Now you can find gynecologists for oophorectomy surgery from different hospitals and destinations on a single platform, Hinfoways. You can avail opinions from multiple gynecologists, get approximate cost of oophorectomy surgery from different hospitals, compare things and then choose a gynecologist for oophorectomy surgery. Find and choose a gynecologist for oophorectomy surgery on Hinfoways. Make an informed choice.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is meant for general informational purposes only and hence SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, care or evaluation by a qualified doctor/physician or other relevantly qualified healthcare provider.
