Oophorectomy

About Oophorectomy

Oophorectomy is the surgical removal of one ovary, a unilateral oophorectomy, or both ovaries, a bilateral oophorectomy. It is often combined with removal of the fallopian tubes in a salpingo oophorectomy. Indications include ovarian cysts and benign tumors such as dermoid cysts and endometriomas, ovarian torsion when the ovary cannot be saved, tubo ovarian abscess, endometriosis, ovarian cancer and risk reducing surgery in people with inherited mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 that greatly increase the risk of ovarian and fallopian tube cancer. Research showing that many high grade serous ovarian cancers originate in the fimbriated ends of the fallopian tubes has made removal of the tubes an important part of risk reducing surgery, and the timing of such surgery is individualized according to the specific mutation and plans for childbearing. Benign conditions are usually treated laparoscopically, and when possible a cyst can be removed while preserving healthy ovarian tissue in an ovarian cystectomy. Removal of both ovaries before natural menopause causes immediate surgical menopause, with hot flashes and other symptoms, and has been associated with increased risks of osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease and cognitive changes, so hormone therapy is often considered for younger people when appropriate. Large observational studies have suggested that removing healthy ovaries at the time of hysterectomy may carry long term risks, which has led to greater emphasis on ovarian conservation in people at average risk of ovarian cancer. Complications of the operation include bleeding, infection and injury to the ureter or bowel.