Laparoscopic vs Laparotomy

[Cagney2712]

After meeting with my Gyn. Onc. last week, the decision was that it's time for surgery on my complex cyst.  I still have no symptoms at all, no ascites, no pain, no nothing,  but she's a little concerned about some small "nodules"now showing on the cyst. She still feels there's a high probability that it's benign, but obviously can't know for sure without surgery. She has recommended that, even if the one ovary is totally benign, that I go ahead and have both ovaries and uterus removed.

I asked whether the surgery could be done via laparoscope, and she's referring me to a surgeon who specializes in that to see what he thinks. If he feels that can be done, they'll do the surgery together.  While I'd certainly like the less invasive surgery and shorter recovery time, I'm really not sure if laparoscopy is the best way to go. I've read pros and cons. I'm wondering if anyone has any "words of wisdom" re: this, and any issues/questions I should get addressed before making the decision.

Karen

[austinsangel]

My doctor did not go into any detail about leakage after rupturing the cyst. She did take pictures and allow me to bring them home. I expected a bloody, messy looking picture when she said she would bring them to me, but to my surprise they were very clear. She had three different pictures for me. One was of the ovary and cyst that was being removed, one had the removed portion held up to the left ovary to show me the difference, and one was a broader view that showed my ovaries and uterus. From the pictures, it looked like they were able to see much more than I expected.

[Cagney2712]

Thanks for the feedback. At 52, I'm not really concerned about scars - don't plan to wear any bikinis :-) From what I've read, I guess my main concerns about the laparoscopy have to do with possible leakage from the cyst if it is ruptured while being removed.  Also, I certainly want the doctor to be able to look at/check out as much as possible to make sure nothing is missed, and I'm not sure enough area can be adequately visualized with a laparoscopy. It just seems the laparotomy would offer a better chance for the doctor to "catch" anything "bad."

Karen

[Panthermlm]

I had the scope done and I was really hesitant about it since my mom passed away a month before from uteran cancer, but I'm glad I did.  the only thing is I would have them do a biopsy of it first because if it is cancerous, with the scope they drain the cyst first and if a little of the liquid leaks out it can progress the cancer and it can spread from what I was told.  I took my chances.  I should have demanded a biopsy but I was on vacation and had to get it done and over.  The other two are right.  You have to give your self time to heal.  Doctors say about 2 weeks.  Yes in a few days you can start moving around but don't over do it, don't climb stairs right way and if you have to do only if you have to for the first few days.  Sleep when you need to.  I just recently started cutting down on my naps and I had my surgery Nov. 30th. Just take care of your self and good luck to you.

[austinsangel]

Unfortunatley, I am recovering from both at this time. I went in for surgery with the scope and the surgery went great except for the way the doctor stitched me up. I have only a couple small places about the size of a bug bite from that surgery. The stitch she used after removing my ovary came undone which caused me to bleed internally.This procedure was done as a day surgery and I was released a few hours after the surgery. I went back that night from the bleeding and they did an emergency surgery to correct the problem. I have been nervous since I heard the word surgery but both are healing up well. I stayed in the hospital for 2 days after the second surgery and have been home for a week. I am getting around very good. In fact, I've already been Christmas shopping:) With either surgery, you must take it easy for a few days to heal up. If the scope is not an option or not your choice, see if they can do the incision along the bikini line rather than up towards the belly button. After what I went through, I definately reccommend asking to at least stay in the hospital overnight to be sure that the surgery went as planned and to allow you to rest. Since you are having more removed, they may have already planned that you stay. I wish you lots of luck and a speedy recovery.

[SimplyStar]

The only thing about the two that I have addressed in surgery is that while you have less scarring with the scope, you still have the internal recovery time. The scope has to be probed around to see all over the abdominal cavity, while with the larger inceasion the doctor has better chances of seeing what all "might" be involved. I want everything that might cause me trouble to be removed in one time.  If I had to make this decision for myself I would not go for the scope. Don't know your age but one piece swim suits look great on any one. With a scope most women try to return to "normal" too soon. Good Luck