Oophorectomy Procedure Description

What you need to know about Oophorectomy Procedure

Oophorectomy also referred to as ovariectomy, is a surgical procedure to remove one or both of a woman’s ovaries – the almond-shaped organs located on each side of the uterus that produces ovum (egg cells). It is often performed to prevent or treat certain medical conditions, such as ovarian torsion, endometriosis, non-cancerous ovarian tumor, and ovarian cancer.

What does the Procedure Involve?

A general anesthetic is used during oophorectomy and the procedure can be performed in two different ways: laparotomy or laparoscopy. With laparotomy, your surgeon will make a single large incision in your lower abdomen to gain access to your ovaries. Then, your surgeon removes the ovary by separating each ovary from the blood supply and tissue that surrounds it. With a laparoscopy, your surgeon makes three small incisions in your abdomen to insert a small surgical tool and laparoscope (a small, flexible tube with a tiny camera and a light on its end). The surgeon separates each ovary from the blood supply and the surrounding tissue and places it into a pouch. The pouch is then pulled out of your abdomen through the small incision.

How Long Should You Stay in the Area?

If you have a laparoscopy, you only have to stay in the hospital for a day. If you have laparotomy, expect to stay in the hospital for 2 or more days. However, you will need to stay in the local area a bit longer, at least around 7 to 14 days for the initial recovery, follow-up checkups, and for the removal of the stitches.

What’s the Recovery Time Like?

You may be able to return to your normal routine and go back to work within 2 to 3 weeks after oophorectomy with laparoscopy. If you undergo laparotomy, you may need six weeks until you can resume your full normal activities.

What Aftercare Should You Consider?

You will need to refrain from sexual intercourse for a few weeks and also avoid heavy lifting and exercise during the recovery period, but make sure to get up and about as soon as you can. You may need to make dietary changes and avoid using tampons.

What is the Success Rate for Oophorectomy Procedure?

Oophorectomy has a high success rate of 97.5%. However, there are some side effects, complications, and risks you need to be aware of before the procedure, such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness (menopause symptoms), memory problems, decreased sex drive, heart disease, depression, anxiety, and osteoporosis.

Are there Alternatives to Oophorectomy Procedure?

The alternative to oophorectomy depends on what medical condition you need the procedure for. If you have endometriosis, your alternative is hormone therapy. Hysterectomy can also be an alternative to this procedure.

What Should You Expect Before and After the Procedure?

Before an oophorectomy, you may be at risk of ovarian and risk cancer. After the surgery, your risk will be greatly reduced. If the procedure is performed to treat a specific condition, you will no longer experience the symptoms of the condition.

For an in-depth analysis of an Oophorectomy Procedure, watch this short video.

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