Ovary Removal
Ovaries are part of the reproductive system where eggs are stored and released upon fertilization. They also release hormones. These hormones can sometimes make conditions such as endometriosis or breast cancer worse. When this happens, or when a patient has a pelvic disease such as ovarian cancer, ovary removal may be the best treatment option.
An oophorectomy is a surgical procedure where the ovaries are removed. This can be performed on its own, or as part of a hysterectomy. Approximately 10 percent of women who have a hysterectomy will also need an oophorectomy because of a condition or disease. The following diseases and conditions can lead to the removal of a patient’s ovaries during a hysterectomy:
- Hereditary diseases – Patients with abnormal genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 are at a greater risk of getting ovarian cancer before the age of 70. The removal of the patient’s ovaries nearly eliminates their chances of developing ovarian cancer, and lower their risk of getting breast cancer.
- Breast cancer – Ovaries produce hormones that can increase a patient’s risk of developing breast cancer.
A prophylactic oophorectomy is the same ovary removal procedure, but the reasons for performing this surgery are different. This procedure is done on patients to decrease the likelihood of developing a disease such as ovarian cancer later on in life.
Recovery can take anywhere from two to six weeks, depending on whether the procedure was performed traditionally or laparoscopically. The patient may be prescribed hormones, depending on their reaction to the reduction of hormones. It is important that the patient takes calcium, as the risk for brittle bones increases after the ovaries are removed.
Urologists at Academic Urology
Our team of specialized urologists are here to care for patients, from diagnosis to treatment. Our extensive knowledge and experience in the field of urology allows us to provide state of the art care. Call or visit our website to learn more about our urologists and the conditions we treat.
