Ovarian cancer starts in the ovaries and can spread to other parts of the body.
Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer
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Pain or cramps in the belly or back
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Abnormal vaginal bleeding
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Nausea
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Bloating
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Feeling full quickly
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Pain during sex
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Constipation
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Menstrual changes
Diagnosis of Ovarian Cancer
Diagnosis of ovarian cancer involves the following:
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Pelvic exam to look for signs of ovarian cancer
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Computed tomography (CT) scans
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Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans
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Ultrasound
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Barium enema x-ray
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PET Scan
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Biopsy
Laparoscopic surgery for Ovarian Cancer
Laparoscopic ovary removal is called laparoscopic bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (BSO), which means removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes on both sides.
The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia. The surgeon makes about 3-4 small incisions in the abdomen. One of the incisions is used to insert a port (nozzle) that fills the carbon dioxide gas into the abdomen to inflate it. Now laparoscope is inserted through another incision. A laparoscope is a telescope lookalike with a light and camera on the end. It allows the surgeon to clearly view inside of the abdomen on the monitor outside. Other surgical instruments are inserted through rest of the incisions to remove ovaries and fallopian tubes. The specimen is removed in a plastic bag from the abdomen by enlarging one of the small incisions. After completing the procedure, the carbon dioxide gas is released out, and incisions are closed with sutures or staples, or covered with glue-like bandage.
Advantages of Laparoscopic Bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy
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Faster recovery
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Minimal blood loss
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Only few hours or overnight hospitalization
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Sooner return to work
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Very less pain during and after the procedure
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Smaller incisions without any cut on abdominal muscles
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Negligible risks and complications
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Less chances of wound infection
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High success rate
