Laparoscopic management of ovarian cysts

Laparoscopic management of ovarian cysts has been controversial [5]. It has gone through tremendous scrutiny and evaluation, with the trend now moving toward increasing acceptance [16,22]. The role of operative laparoscopy in the management of patients with ovarian cysts is expanding, offering distinct advantages of lower morbidity, improved postoperative recovery, and reduced cost. Although clinical examination and the results of preoperative work-up often indicate the benign or malignant nature of the cysts, only histology can provide the absolute diagnosis. The availability of immediate histologic diagnosis on frozen sections is crucial [2]. When malignancy is detected, immediate surgical staging by laparoscopy or by laparotomy is indicated. Operative laparoscopy for evaluation and management of adnexal masses, when performed by a surgeon trained in advanced laparoscopic techniques, is safe and effective and associated with less morbidity compared with open techniques. Undoubtedly, operative laparoscopy will replace most, if not almost all, laparotomies for the management of ovarian cysts [23].