scheduled for surgery

[mhelen]

I am 47 yers old and up to Jan of this year was having no problems, then in January I had a very heavy 19 day period and then after skipping a month had another heavy 24 day period. I have gained a fair amount of weight since January and most in my stomach (but not sure if it's from bloating or just my age). I went for an US because I was considering having the Novasure procedure done for this problem when they discovered a cyst on my right ovary. According to my report I have an enlarged Uterus (the endometrial biopsy was negative)and a right ovarian cyst with a thin septation measureing 5.5 X 5.0 X 4.6. Till now I have only seen a nurse practitioner whom I love but a few days ago I met with her gyn partner(MD). He is planning laproscopic surgery to remove the cyst and my RT ovary. My Ca 125 is only 28 and he says he is fairly sure there is no cancer but that because of the septation he wants to remove it and check to be sure. I have been reading that if cancer is suspected you have a better outcome with a gyn/oncologist.  The gyn/oncologist in my health system won't see me unless I have a cancer diagnosis, a high tumor marker, or very strong suspicion of cancer.  Is there any danger in having a laproscopic surgery and then if something is found having to go in for a second surgery? I am worried that in the off chance something is found my outcome won't be as good without the gyn/oncologist.  Thanks Mary

[Annekathryn Goodman, M.D.]

Dear Mary,

I completely agree with the plan that your gyn has made. With a normal CA 125, it is fine to have your surgery with him. It is also safe to have a second surgery if that is necessary.
best wishes to you