Ovarian Cancer Surgery

Ovarian Cancer Surgery in India

Overview

Ovarian cancer arises from the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the ovary. Surgery is a primary treatment and varies based on the cancer type and stage. Performed by gynecological oncologists, ovarian cancer surgery is often followed by chemotherapy in advanced cases.

Types of Ovarian Cancer Surgery

Unilateral/Bilateral Salpingo-oophorectomy: Removal of one or both ovaries and fallopian tubes
Total Hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus and cervix
Debulking Surgery: Removal of as much cancerous tissue as possible
Staging Surgery: To determine the extent of cancer spread

Cancer Staging

Stage 1: Cancer in one or both ovaries
Stage 2: Spread to the pelvis
Stage 3: Spread to the abdomen outside the pelvis
Stage 4: Spread to liver or beyond

Surgical Procedure

Before Surgery

Blood tests
Imaging (X-ray, CT, ultrasound)
Cardiogram
Bowel prep
Fasting 8 hours before surgery

During Surgery

Administered under general anesthesia
Tissue samples taken for biopsy
Cancer staging and debulking performed
May include removal of ovaries, uterus, stomach sections, lymph nodes

After Surgery

Hospital stay of 5–7 days
Full recovery takes 6–8 weeks
Follow-ups every 2–3 months
CA125 blood tests and PET-CT or MRI for monitoring

Risks of Surgery

Cancer recurrence (especially advanced epithelial types)
Gastrointestinal issues
Fatigue, swelling, vaginal bleeding
Loss of libido
Mental health impacts (stress, anxiety, depression)

Cost Factors

Medication
Patient condition and overall health
Duration and frequency of treatment
Hospitalization and care level
Hospital reputation and location
Diagnostic and treatment modality
Medical team’s experience
Government subsidies or medical tourism packages

Foreign patients may save 30–40% compared to their home country costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who is at risk for ovarian cancer?
A: Women over 55, those never pregnant, obese individuals, and those with a family history of ovarian/breast/colon cancer.

Q: Are there early-stage symptoms?
A: Yes—bloating, pelvic pain, loss of appetite, frequent urination.

Q: Can genetic screening help?
A: Yes, BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations increase risk; genetic screening can identify predisposition.

Q: Does CA-125 confirm cancer?
A: Not alone; it’s more useful during/after treatment and in postmenopausal women.

Q: How is it diagnosed if no screening exists?
A: Through laparoscopy/laparotomy and pathological testing of tissue and fluid samples.

Q: Can another cancer occur after ovarian cancer?
A: Yes. Survivors are at higher risk for colon, bladder, breast, rectal, and bile duct cancers.

Q: Is chemotherapy always required post-surgery?
A: Depends on stage. Chemotherapy is used for advanced stages or in combination with other therapies.

Q: When can the patient travel by air?
A: Usually safe 4 weeks after surgery, with 3–7 days hospital stay and 4–6 weeks total recovery.