Oophorectomy Procedure
Overview
Oophorectomy refers to the surgical removal of one or both ovaries. The ovaries are small, almond-shaped organs found on either side of the uterus in the lower abdomen. They play a key role in storing eggs and making hormones that are important for the menstrual cycle. There are two main types:
- Unilateral Oophorectomy: Only one ovary is removed.
- Bilateral Oophorectomy: Both ovaries are removed.
Sometimes, a surgeon may also remove the fallopian tubes alongside the ovary—a process called salpingo-oophorectomy. Surgeons can perform an oophorectomy at the same time as a hysterectomy, though not all hysterectomies include ovary removal. Doctors may recommend this procedure for various reasons, including specific medical conditions or as a preventive measure.
Reasons for Oophorectomy
Doctors perform oophorectomy for several medical reasons that affect the ovaries and related organs. Here are some key situations where this surgery might be recommended:
- Ovarian cancer treatment.
- Preventing future cancers, especially in people with high-risk genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2.
- Large or painful cysts, including endometriomas from endometriosis.
- Noncancerous tumors or ovarian masses causing symptoms.
- Ovarian torsion, where the ovary twists and blood flow is blocked.
- Tubo-ovarian abscess, a severe infection involving an ovary and fallopian tube.
Risk Reduction
Some people at high risk for ovarian or breast cancer, like those with Lynch syndrome or harmful changes in BRCA genes, may have this surgery to lower their chances of getting cancer. In many cases, both ovaries and fallopian tubes are removed in a procedure called salpingo-oophorectomy.
| Medical Reason | Description |
|---|---|
| Ovarian cancer | Cancerous cells in the ovaries |
| Endometriosis | Tissue growth causing cysts and pain |
| Ovarian cysts or masses | Growths that may lead to discomfort or risk |
| Risk reduction (BRCA, Lynch) | Lowering cancer risk with surgery |
Ovary removal can help manage pain, prevent severe complications, or stop cancer from developing in the future.
Possible Complications
Sudden Hormone Loss After Ovary Removal
When both ovaries are removed, the body stops making important hormones like estrogen and progesterone. This sudden drop can lead to immediate menopause, no matter the person’s age.
Typical symptoms include hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and night sweats. Other effects can include depression, anxiety, low sexual desire, and trouble with remembering things. Early loss of these hormones also raises the chance of osteoporosis, which makes bones weaker and easier to break.
The risk for heart disease increases after this surgery, especially in women under 45. Some people may notice abdominal or pelvic pain after surgery. Infection, heavy bleeding, and possible injury to nearby organs during the procedure can also occur.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Doctors might suggest HRT to replace hormones lost after the surgery. While HRT can help with menopause symptoms and protect bones, it has its own side effects and risks. Discuss decisions about HRT with a healthcare provider.
Steps for Getting Ready
Planning for Future Children
Anyone considering this surgery needs to know it often leads to infertility. If having children in the future is important, speak with a healthcare provider before the operation.
A fertility expert can discuss which choices are available. Fertility options like egg freezing, embryo preservation, or using a donor egg may be possible, depending on the situation. Here are actions to guide preparation for surgery:
| What To Do | Details |
|---|---|
| Share Medication List | Provide all current medicines, vitamins, and supplements. |
| Manage Blood Thinners | Stop certain medicines like aspirin if advised by the healthcare team. |
| Follow Eating Rules | Do not eat or drink as instructed before surgery. |
| Complete Testing | Take any needed blood or imaging tests before the procedure. |
Other Things To Expect
- Doctors usually use general anesthesia, so arrange not to drive home after surgery.
- Some people might need special soap or a shower before coming to the hospital.
- Arrange help at home because lifting or driving is not allowed for a while.
What You Can Expect
Preparing for Ovary Removal Surgery
The healthcare team gives patients clear instructions about when and where to arrive for the ovary removal procedure. They may ask patients to begin preparation in one area of the medical facility and then move them to the surgical unit. Many oophorectomies are outpatient surgeries, so most individuals return home later that same day.
| Preparation Steps | Details |
|---|---|
| Arrival Instructions | Provided by healthcare staff. |
| Preoperative Area | May require transfer between hospital departments. |
| Length of Stay | Often outpatient – go home the same day. |
Note: Additional tests or medication instructions may be given before surgery begins.
The Process of Ovary Removal
Surgeons perform oophorectomy under general anesthesia, ensuring the patient feels no pain and is unconscious. The surgeon reaches the ovaries by making an incision in the abdomen. There are two main surgical approaches:
- Traditional (Open) Surgery/Laparotomy: The surgeon makes a single, larger cut to access the ovaries.
- Minimally Invasive (Laparoscopic) Surgery: The surgeon creates several small incisions for thin surgical instruments and a camera, known as a laparoscope. Some surgeries use a robotic system with the surgeon controlling tools from a computer console.
Types of Surgery
| Method | Incisions | Recovery Time |
|---|---|---|
| Open (Laparotomy) | One larger incision | May require hospital stay |
| Laparoscopic/Minimally Invasive | A few small cuts | Usually faster recovery |
During the operation, the surgeon carefully separates one or both ovaries from surrounding tissues and blood vessels. The surgeon removes the ovaries through the incision(s).
In some cases, the surgeon also removes the fallopian tubes (salpingo-oophorectomy) or uterus (hysterectomy) if needed. The surgeon protects the ureter and other nearby organs during this step. The surgeon typically closes the incisions with stitches that dissolve on their own.
Recovering After Ovary Removal
After surgery, staff move patients to a recovery area to wake up from anesthesia. Nurses monitor vital signs and pain levels. Later, they may move patients to another hospital room for further observation.
What to Expect After Surgery
- Some belly discomfort and mild swelling are normal.
- Changes in bowel habits may occur for a few days.
- Doctors encourage movement as soon as possible to help healing.
- Most patients go home the same day, but a longer stay is needed if a larger incision was used.
Proper rest, following wound care instructions, and attention to symptoms are important during recovery. The medical team at Healthnile will answer any questions and guide each step to ensure safe healing.
Findings
Most individuals return to their regular routines within 2 to 4 weeks after an oophorectomy. The speed of recovery depends on both the underlying reason for the procedure and the method surgeons use for surgery. If both ovaries are removed, hormone levels may change, and doctors might suggest hormone replacement therapy to help manage symptoms.
