Laparoscopy – Ovarian Cysts

The most common cysts include Dermoid Cysts, Haemorrhagic Cysts, Cystadenomata (Serous and Mucinous) and Fibromas (solid cysts of the ovary). Laparoscopy is the preferred approach to remove benign cysts – Laparoscopic Cystectomy. This will minimise recovery time, minimise the risk of adhesions, and maximise preservation of fertility. A Laparoscopy is performed and four small incisions made on the abdomen. The procedure involves opening the normal ovarian cortex over the cyst. The cyst wall and cyst contents are then stripped off the normal ovarian tissue. The normal ovarian tissue remains. This will continue to heal and return to a normal size over the next few weeks.

Recovery  after Laparoscopic Ovarian Cystectomy

You will be given spare dressings from the hospital. The dressings which are on the four small cuts are water proof. They can be left intact for one week. It is fine to have a shower and get the dressings wet.

Most women will experience a sharp pain in the right shoulder tip or the base of the neck. This is referred pain from the gas being caught under the diaphragm.  This will settle over the first 24 hours. Most women will continue to experience a bloated sensation and sharp shooting sensations for the next 3-5 days. Feeling tired is common. You are advised to avoid swimming and intercourse for one week post procedure. You can expect to take 3-5 days off work. Dr Cook will call the day after the surgery to confirm that you are progressing well. She will review you 7-10 days post-operatively to monitor your progress, discuss the procedure and the pathology.