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Learn more about an Ovarian Cystectomy in Williamsport & Wellsboro, PA

Many women will develop at least one ovarian cyst during their lifetime. In most cases, cysts are painless and cause no symptoms. Other times, they can be cancerous or be at risk for rupturing, causing intense pain and internal bleeding. Surgical treatment depends on whether or not you wish to maintain fertility and also the condition of the cyst.

If you’re interested in learning more about ovarian cyst removal, Find a Provider at UPMC.

Why an Ovarian Cystectomy Is Performed

During an ovarian cystectomy procedure, an ovarian cyst or tumor is removed while keeping the ovary intact. This procedure is advantageous for women who wish to keep their fertility.

Considerations for an ovarian cystectomy include:

  • Patient’s age
  • Possibility of malignancy
  • Size of the cyst or tumor

What to Expect

During an ovarian cystectomy, your doctor removes cysts laparoscopically, meaning a slim instrument is inserted into your abdomen through a small incision. You will most likely be under anesthesia for the procedure. Ovarian masses that are cancerous may require complete removal of the ovary to avoid rupture. If cancerous masses rupture, patients will require chemotherapy due to the spill of cancerous cells into the pelvis.

Once the cyst is removed from the body, it is placed in a special bag for analysis. The physician carefully reviews the sections of the mass to determine whether or not it is cancerous.

Recovery After an Ovarian Cystectomy

Laparoscopic procedures are minimally invasive, allowing patients to avoid large, open incisions for the removal of their cysts. This decreases hospital stays, recovery times and pain. You may be able to go home that same day or the following day. You may notice that you feel better within the first few days of surgery. Sexual intercourse and lifting heavy objects may not be recommended for a certain amount of time.

UPMC offers quality comfort and care before, during and after an ovarian cystectomy in Williamsport, PA, and the surrounding areas.