Oophorectomy
Why Choose Loyola for Oophorectomy?
An oophorectomy is the surgical removal of the ovaries. It can be performed alone or in conjunction with the removal of the uterus. This often can be performed with minimally invasive surgery.
Some women opt for this surgery if they are at high risk for breast cancer or ovarian cancer. It may also be performed as treatment for endometriosis, noncancerous ovarian tumors and ovarian torsion.
There are several different types of oophorectomy:
- Unilateral: removal of one ovary
- Bilateral: removal of both ovaries
- Bilateral-salpingo: removal of both ovaries and fallopian tubes
- Unilateral-salpingo: removal of one ovary and the fallopian tubes
What to Expect with an Oophorectomy
During an oophorectomy, you will be put under anesthesia. The length of your hospital stay depends on your recovery time and whether the procedure was performed as an open oophorectomy or laparoscopic oophorectomy.
Open oophorectomy: Your surgeon makes a large incision across your abdomen to remove the ovary/ovaries.
Laparoscopic oophorectomy: Your surgeon makes several small incisions in your abdomen and inserts a tube with a tiny camera and special small instruments. This type of procedure may also be robotically assisted to allow your surgeon greater control to make finer incisions.
Side Effects of an Oophorectomy
If you have not experienced menopause and both ovaries are removed, you will experience premature menopause.
Risks of Oophorectomy
An oophorectomy is a relatively safe surgical procedure with a small risk of complications, including:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Damage to nearby organs
- Rupture of a tumor
- Pelvic pain in premenopausal women
- Small bowel obstruction
Complications include:
- Hot flashes and vaginal dryness
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Heart disease
- Memory problems
- Decreased sex drive
- Osteoporosis
- Premature death