Ovarian Cysectomy

About This Procedure

Ovarian cystectomy, or removal of ovarian cyst(s), offers a solution for painful symptoms and other health impacts from ovarian cysts.

Franciscan Health offers minimally invasive, robotic-assisted ovarian cystectomy for women with non-cancerous ovarian cysts which can be removed while leaving the ovary intact and functional. Common cysts removed using the da Vinci® Surgical System include functional and dermoid cysts, cystadenomas and endometrioses.

Because of the few small incisions using a robotic-assisted, minimally invasive technique to treat ovarian cysts, patients usually go home on the same day of their surgery. Recovery can take several weeks.

When to get an ovarian cystectomy

Ovarian cysts often cause no symptoms and disappear after a short period of time. However, surgery may be recommended if:

• Cysts are frequent and don't go away.
• The cysts cause pain, break open and/or bleed.
• The cysts measure more than five to 10 centimeters.

In cases of ovarian cancer, a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) or oophorectomy (removal of the ovary) may be needed.

Before deciding to have surgery, ask your doctor or nurse what to expect after the procedure. Many women notice changes in their body and in how they feel about themselves. Talk with your doctor, nurse, family and friends about these possible changes before you have surgery.