A minimally invasive procedure to reduce menstrual bleeding.
An ovarian cyst is a fluid filled or solid sac that can develop on or inside an ovary. Most ovarian cysts are harmless and disappear without treatment, but some may cause pain, pressure or other symptoms and may need to be removed.
Laparoscopic ovarian cyst removal is a minimally invasive procedure used to remove an ovarian cyst through small abdominal incisions. The aim is to treat the cyst while preserving as much healthy ovarian tissue as possible.
Your gynaecologist will assess your symptoms, medical history, imaging results and individual circumstances to determine whether laparoscopic cyst removal is appropriate for you.
Laparoscopic ovarian cyst removal, also called laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy, is a keyhole procedure used to remove a cyst from one or both ovaries.
A thin camera called a laparoscope is inserted through a small abdominal incision, allowing your surgeon to see the ovaries and surrounding organs. Small surgical instruments are then used to separate and remove the cyst.
The procedure is designed to remove the cyst while preserving the healthy part of the ovary where possible.
Laparoscopic cyst removal may be considered when an ovarian cyst causes symptoms or has features that require further assessment or treatment.
You may experience symptoms if you:
Treatment depends on the type, size and appearance of the cyst, your symptoms and your individual circumstances. Some cysts can be monitored, while others may require surgery.
Laparoscopic ovarian cyst removal may be considered when a cyst is causing significant symptoms, persists over time or requires surgical assessment or treatment.
Your gynaecologist will consider factors such as:
Important: Not every ovarian cyst requires surgery. Your doctor will discuss monitoring, alternative treatments, expected benefits and potential risks before recommending a procedure.
During laparoscopic cyst removal, your gynaecologist uses a small camera and specialised instruments inserted through several small abdominal incisions.
The cyst is carefully separated from the healthy ovarian tissue and removed through one of the small incisions. The cyst may be sent to a laboratory for detailed examination.
The aim is to remove the cyst while preserving the ovary and its function whenever this is safely possible.
Before recommending laparoscopic ovarian cyst removal, your gynaecologist will assess your symptoms and imaging results to determine whether surgery is appropriate for you.
You may need an ultrasound or other investigations depending on the size and appearance of the cyst and your medical history.
Your doctor will also discuss:
During the Procedure
The procedure is usually performed under general anaesthetic, so you will be asleep during surgery. Small incisions are made in the abdomen and carbon dioxide gas is used to create space for the laparoscope and surgical instruments.
The cyst is carefully separated from the ovary and removed. In some circumstances, if the cyst cannot be safely separated or the ovary is significantly affected, removal of part or all of the ovary may be necessary.
What Can I Expect After Laparoscopic Ovarian Cyst Removal?
Most people can return home on the same day or the following day, depending on the procedure and their recovery.
You may experience:
Your healthcare team will provide specific instructions about pain relief, wound care, activity and when you can return to your usual routine.
Recovery varies from person to person, so it’s important to follow the advice provided by your treating team.
Laparoscopic ovarian cyst removal may:
For many people, laparoscopic surgery provides effective treatment with less discomfort and shorter recovery than traditional open surgery.
Important Considerations
Laparoscopic cyst removal is not suitable for every ovarian cyst and does not guarantee that cysts will not develop again.
There are also potential risks associated with the procedure, including infection, bleeding, injury to surrounding organs, damage to healthy ovarian tissue and the possibility of needing to remove the ovary if it cannot be safely preserved. Your individual risks will depend on the type and size of the cyst and your overall health.
