Chennai, Feb 23: VS Hospitals successfully performed a complex fertility-sparing surgery on a 21-year-old IT professional to remove a massive 20-cm ovarian cyst that had caused severe abdominal pain due to torsion, a condition in which the ovary twists and compromises its blood supply.
The surgical team performed an emergency staging laparotomy, an open abdominal procedure undertaken to remove the tumour and assess whether the disease had spread. The cyst was completely excised along with the affected fallopian tube, which connects the ovary to the uterus, while the healthy ovary and other reproductive structures were carefully preserved to safeguard her future fertility. The team also carried out appendicectomy, a procedure to remove the appendix, as certain ovarian tumours, particularly mucinous types, can be associated with or involve the appendix.
The patient underwent detailed evaluation, including ultrasound, MRI, tumour marker analysis, and complete pre-operative investigations. Disease staging was performed through systematic inspection and sampling of lymph nodes, the abdominal lining, and the omentum to assess any spread.
The treatments were provided by a multidisciplinary team comprising specialists in gynaecology, surgical oncology, anaesthesiology, and cardiology, with further evaluation and guidance from medical oncology and radiation oncology experts.
In her comments, Dr. Girija Ashok Kumar, Senior Consultant Obstetrics & Gynaecology, said,
“The patient came to us with severe lower abdominal pain and nausea. On evaluation we identified a very large, complex ovarian cyst measuring nearly 20 cm. The patient is thin-built and the mass was occupying most of the abdomen extending above the umbilicus. What made it more concerning was the development of torsion, where the ovary twists on itself and cuts off its own blood supply, making it a surgical emergency. Given her young age, preserving her future fertility became a key priority for us. While ensuring complete removal of the tumour, we carefully retained the healthy reproductive structures. We had to remove the appendix as a precaution, since certain types of ovarian tumours can be associated with it.”
“Had she come a little earlier, the surgery could have been planned in a more controlled and less urgent manner, instead of being performed as an emergency due to torsion. Fortunately, the disease was detected at Stage I and completely cleared with surgery. She is recovering well and is stable. However, regular follow-up, periodic evaluations, and adherence to healthy lifestyle measures are essential to ensure her long-term well-being,” she said.
Dr. Girija Ashok Kumar emphasised that women should not ignore persistent lower abdominal pain, bloating, a feeling of abdominal fullness, irregular menstrual cycles, nausea, or sudden severe pain, as these could indicate an underlying ovarian problem. Early evaluation with a simple scan can make a significant difference. “While not all ovarian cysts can be prevented, especially those with a possible genetic basis, maintaining a healthy weight, following a balanced diet, staying physically active, managing stress, and undergoing regular gynaecological check-ups can help in early detection and reducing overall risk. Awareness and timely consultation are key,” she pointed out.