Ooforektomia

Ooforektomia is the surgical removal of one or both ovaries. When only one ovary is removed, the procedure is called a unilateral oophorectomy; removal of both ovaries is a bilateral oophorectomy. The operation may be performed alone or together with removal of the fallopian tube (salpingo-oophorectomy) and is commonly done laparoscopically but can also be performed as an open operation depending on the indications and patient factors.

Indications for oophorectomy include malignant ovarian tumors or suspicious adnexal masses, staging or cytoreduction for ovarian cancer, benign conditions such as persistent ovarian cysts or endometriosis, ovarian torsion, or prophylaxis in individuals at high genetic risk for ovarian cancer (for example, carriers of BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations). The choice between unilateral and bilateral removal depends on the clinical situation, age, fertility goals, and cancer risk.

The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia. Surgeons may use a minimally invasive approach (laparoscopy) or an open approach (laparotomy). Tissue is examined pathologically, and frozen section analysis may be used in oncologic cases. Postoperative care includes pain control and gradual return to activity. Recovery time varies with the approach, but laparoscopic procedures generally have shorter hospital stays.

Effects on fertility and hormonal status depend on laterality and age. Bilateral oophorectomy in premenopausal women induces immediate menopause and related symptoms, along with increased risks of osteoporosis and cardiovascular changes; unilateral removal usually preserves hormonal function and fertility. Hormone replacement therapy may be discussed in cases of early menopause. Pregnancy after bilateral oophorectomy is not possible with the patient’s own ovaries, though uterus remains capable of gestation with donor eggs if appropriate.