Hi,
I posted a while ago already about a cyst that my doctor wants taken out, and I explained the various reasons- including previous major abdominal surgery- why I would only opt for surgery if it is completely unavoidable.
In short, I went to see a different doctor today to see what her opinion is about the cyst, and wether it needs to be taken out. The cyst was 3.8 cm today (which means it is the same size since it was discovered in February).
First of all, she said that on the ultrasound it looks like it has some solid components, and some blood. She mentioned the term "endometriosis"- what exactly is that? I have read the term before, but I don't know what it really means. She is very certain that the cycst does not look malignant, which is also unlikely (though I know it's not impossible) since I'm only 28 years old. She doesn't think that the cyst will go away on its own, because the blood looks coagulated, which precludes the disappearance through rupturing. Therefore, she strongly recommended surgery.
Now I guess I'm especially concerned about this: I read that for open surgery (a laparotomy would likely be impossible in my case, because my abdomen was cut open before and there may be "things in the way" as the doctor but it), is it necessary to actually sever the abdominal muscles?
This is absolutely terrifying to me, because I am a weightlifter and the abdominal muscles are so all-important for lifting and being strong. If they got permanently damaged, I would be absolutely devastated.
Thanks so much to anybody who can give me a little info!
Mary