Laparoscopic and Robotic Management of Ovarian Cysts/Masses in Houston, TX
One of the many minimally invasive gynecological procedures that Barbara Schroeder, MD offers is the laparoscopic or robotic management of ovarian cysts or masses. Ovarian cysts or masses are very common for women of various ages. In fact, more than three million women each year are diagnosed with an ovarian cyst in the U.S. alone.
An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac or pocket that develops on the surface of an ovary. They are often harmless and produce no symptoms, but larger cysts can be painful and eventually rupture. Ovarian masses are slightly different, presenting as solid tumors that grow in or on the ovary. These are often benign but can be cancerous in some cases. No matter what, you need a gynecologist in Houston you can trust.
When ovarian cysts become problematic or painful, Dr. Schroeder offers her patients either laparoscopic or robotic management of ovarian cysts and masses to ensure they do not grow larger or eventually rupture. The following are signs that you may have an ovarian mass or cyst that should be removed:
Dull or sharp pain in the lower abdomen
Nausea
Vomiting
Pain during intercourse
Fullness or heaviness in the lower abdomen
During removal of an ovarian cyst, whether through laparoscopy or robotic surgery, the patient is under general anesthesia for the duration of the procedure. Laparoscopic management of ovarian cysts utilizes a laparoscope to enter the pelvic region through small incisions in the lower region of the abdomen. The laparoscope provides light within the pelvic area. At the same time, an attached camera transmits images to a video monitor the doctor can view to see the most detailed image of the ovaries. Carbon dioxide is introduced into the pelvic cavity to allow more space to examine and remove any ovarian cysts.
Robotic management of ovarian cysts involves the use of the daVinci system, which leads to faster recovery times and minimal pain. The daVinci system helps Dr. Schroeder get an advanced visualization of the ovaries, allowing for increased precision. During robotic management of ovarian cysts, small incisions are made on the abdomen through which Dr. Schroeder inserts miniaturized surgical tools. Dr. Schroeder is able to control these tools through the daVinci system, navigating the pelvic region and removing ovarian cysts in the least invasive manner.
Both laparoscopic and robotic management of ovarian cysts are minimally invasive procedures. After removing an ovarian mass with either of these techniques, recovery is typically very brief and involves little pain, allowing most patients to return to work within one week of having surgery. Patients will often need to be monitored in the future to evaluate for the development of other cysts or masses. Checking for ovarian cysts is very simple and can be completed with a pelvic ultrasound.
