Oophorectomy (ovary removal surgery)
About this test
An oophorectomy is surgery to remove one or both of the ovaries. The ovaries are almond-shaped organs that sit on each side of the uterus in the pelvis. The ovaries contain eggs and produce hormones that control the menstrual cycle. When an oophorectomy (oh-of-uh-REK-tuh-me) involves removing both ovaries, it's called bilateral oophorectomy. When the surgery involves removing only one ovary, it's called unilateral oophorectomy. Sometimes surgery to remove the ovaries also involves removing the nearby fallopian tubes. This procedure is called a salpingo-oophorectomy.
Why it's done
An oophorectomy may be done to treat or prevent certain health issues. It may be used for: A tubo-ovarian abscess. A tubo-ovarian abscess is a pus-filled pocket involving a fallopian tube and an ovary. Endometriosis. Endometriosis happens when tissue similar to the uterus lining grows outside of the uterus. It can cause cysts to form on the ovaries, called endometriomas. Noncancerous ovarian tumors or cysts. Small tumors or cysts may form on the ovaries. Cysts may burst and cause pain and other problems. Removing the ovaries can prevent this. Ovarian cancer. Oophorectomy may be used to treat ovarian cancer. Ovarian torsion. Ovarian torsion happens when an ovary becomes twisted. Reducing cancer risk. Oophorectomy may be used in people who have a high risk of ovarian cancer or breast cancer. Oophorectomy lowers the risk of both kinds of cancer. Research shows that some ovarian cancers start in the fallopian tubes. Because of this, the fallopian tubes may be removed during an oophorectomy that's done to lower the risk of cancer. A procedure that removes the ovaries and the fallopian tubes is called a salpingo-oophorectomy.
Risks and complications
An oophorectomy is a fairly safe procedure. However, with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved. Risks of an oophorectomy include the following: Bleeding. Damage to nearby organs. Inability to get pregnant without medical help if both ovaries are removed. Infection. Remaining ovary cells that continue to cause period symptoms, such as pelvic pain. This is called ovarian remnant syndrome. Rupture of a growth during surgery. If the growth is cancerous, this could spill cancer cells in the belly where they might grow.
How to prepare
To prepare for an oophorectomy, you may be asked to: Tell your healthcare team about any medicines, vitamins or supplements you're taking. Some substances could interfere with the surgery. Stop taking aspirin or other blood-thinning medicines. If you take blood thinners, your healthcare team will tell you when to stop taking these medicines. Sometimes a different blood-thinning medicine is given around the time of surgery. Stop eating before surgery. You'll receive specific instructions from your healthcare team about eating. You may need to stop eating several hours before surgery. You may be given the OK to drink liquids up to a certain time before surgery. Follow the instructions from your healthcare team. Have testing done. Testing may be needed to help the surgeon plan for the procedure. Imaging tests, such as an ultrasound, may be used. A blood test also may be needed.
Understanding your results
How quickly you can go back to your daily activities after an oophorectomy depends on your situation. Factors may include the reason for your surgery and how it was performed. Most people can return to full activity in 2 to 4 weeks after surgery. Talk with your healthcare team about what to expect.
Disclaimer: August is a health information platform and its responses don't constitute medical advise. Always consult with a licenced medical professional near you before making any changes.