Effective Surgical Management of a Large Serous Ovarian Cyst in a Morbidly Obese Middle-Aged Woman: A Case Study and Literature Review

Am J Case Rep. 2023 Jun 21:24:e939697. doi: 10.12659/AJCR.939697.

Abstract

BACKGROUND In contemporary gynecological practice, encountering giant ovarian tumors is a rarity. While most are benign and of the mucinous subtype, the borderline variant only accounts for approximately 10% of these cases. This paper addresses the paucity of information about this specific subtype, emphasizing critical elements of managing borderline tumors that can pose life-threatening complications. Additionally, a review of other documented cases of the borderline variant in the literature is also included to foster a deeper understanding of this uncommon condition. CASE REPORT We present the multidisciplinary management of a 52-year-old symptomatic woman with a giant serous borderline ovarian tumor. Preoperative assessment showed a multiloculated pelvic-abdominal cyst responsible for compression of the bowel and retroperitoneal organs, and dyspnea. All tumor markers were negative. Together with anesthesiologists and interventional cardiologists, we decided to perform a controlled drainage of the cyst of the tumor, to prevent hemodynamic instability. Subsequent total extrafascial hysterectomy, contralateral salpingo-oophorectomy, and abdominal wall reconstruction, followed by admission to the intensive care unit, were also conducted by the multidisciplinary team. During the postoperative period, the patient experienced a cardiopulmonary arrest and acute renal failure, which were managed by dialysis. After discharge, the patient underwent oncologic followup, and after 2 years, she was found to be completely recovered and disease free. CONCLUSIONS Intraoperative controlled drainage of Giant ovarian tumor fluid, planned by a multidisciplinary management team, constitutes a valid and safe alternative to the popular choice of "en bloc" tumor resection. This approach avoids rapid changes in body circulation, which are responsible for intraoperative and postoperative severe complications.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Cysts*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Obesity, Morbid* / complications
  • Ovarian Cysts*
  • Ovarian Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Ovarian Neoplasms* / surgery
  • Renal Dialysis