LSH for Complex Ovarian Cyst?

I am scheduled for LSH in June. I had my left ovary and a large borderline malignant tumor removed when I was 18 years old. I am now 37 and have a small (2 cm.) complex cyst on the remaining ovary. My dr. said we could just watch it, but given my history we would have to watch very closely. I've had two ultrasounds done, two months apart. The cyst did not get any larger, but did not go away either. His preference is to take it out and be done with it because of my history, but said he would also want to remove the uterus because, without any ovaries, it would be useless to me, but would leave the cervix. I would then go on ERT afterward.

I trust him, but wanted thoughts from others. Is this the right thing to do?

It never hurts to have a second opinion. It may be worth your time. Did you ask for copies of your ultrasound reports. My doctor gave me mine without having to ask. If you do get a second opinion it would be nice to have the reports in hand. Complex can be almost anything, not necessarily malignanant. If your cyst is not malignant you may be a canidate for just having the cyst removed.

Hi Texas5~

In my opinion, given your history, I would agree to have your ovary removed due to the complex cyst.

My sister has OvCa and a 3 cm complex cyst has now been detected on my left ovary. While my gyno/onc does not seem in a terrible rush, he is recommending that I have everything out given my sister's history, not even my own as is your case. I am finished having children and I would prefer the peace of mind to really lessen my chances of going through what I have seen my sister suffer through!

There is no way to determine whether a complex cyst is benign or not until it is removed and biopsied. I do know (through my doctor and my own research) that there can be "red flag" comments in the US pathology report that would alarm doctors to be in a real hurry to rush you off to surgery. I am assuming that's the reason my doctor is not in a huge rush. I believe the basic rule of thumb regarding size is anything 6 cm or above is real cause for concern. That is just what I have heard and read...please ask your own doctor about that.

Please keep us posted and don't hesitate to email me at any time...even if it's just to "vent".

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Heni

I don't know Heni - mine is a septated 9cm cyst and my dr. has yet to see me. It's been 21/2 weeks and the only one that seems concerned is me. I agree with you though.

Hi Jeanne~

OK...now you have me as you know what!!!!!!!!

Now it's time for you to become VERY PROACTIVE and INSIST on an appointment IMMEDIATELY!

This is not intended to frighten you in any way, however, a 9 cm COMPLEX CYST should not be given a "let's wait and see" approach to it. I would NEVER allow, nor, would my gyno/onc be taking that posture with yours being that size.

In my opinion, I would be getting on the phone and DEMANDING to be seen.... you already waiting 2 1/2 weeks is entirely unreasonable.

They did this to my sister who has OvCa and caused her to lose so much valuable time in starting her treatment. This is why I implore women to become PROACTIVE with their health issues.

Please keep me posted.

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Heni

Jeanne~

I am really praying that you are being seen by a gynecological oncologist and not just a regular gyno!
Are you?????????

If you aren't, please get an appointment with one ASAP. They are the real specialists when it comes to women's issues such as yours and mine.

It's unfortunate, but often times regular gyno's just don't have the expertise and knowledge that is needed. In fact, my sister's regular gyno was the LAST to learn of her OvCa!!!!!!!!!!

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Heni

I really don't know if I am or not. I'll find out - I do know it's not my regular gyn dr but he's in the same practice so i just assumed my regular didn't have any openings. I don't think he's worried because my CA125 came back ok and my pap was ok. I don't know how much stock those have but I thought it was pretty good.