About Ovarian Cancer
Key Highlights
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Performed by a specialist (Gynecologic Oncologist) with advanced training in female reproductive cancers.Goal of surgery is maximal cytoreduction (debulking) to improve the effectiveness of subsequent treatments.Often allows for definitive staging of the cancer during the same procedure.Can significantly improve prognosis and survival rates when performed optimally.Part of a multidisciplinary treatment plan that typically includes chemotherapy.
Who is this surgery for?
- Confirmed diagnosis of ovarian cancer via imaging (CT/MRI) and elevated tumor markers (e.g., CA-125).
- Suspicion of ovarian cancer based on a complex pelvic mass, especially in postmenopausal women.
- For staging and primary treatment of epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer.
- As an interval debulking surgery after a few cycles of neoadjuvant chemotherapy.
- For secondary cytoreduction in cases of recurrent disease, if clinically appropriate.
How to prepare
- Comprehensive pre-operative evaluation including blood tests, imaging, and cardiac/pulmonary clearance.
- Bowel preparation may be required, depending on the anticipated extent of surgery.
- Discussion of fertility preservation options if desired and clinically feasible.
- Nutritional optimization and possible consultation with a dietitian.
- Pre-operative counseling to set expectations about the surgery, recovery, and need for adjuvant therapy.
- Fasting for 8-12 hours before the procedure as instructed.
Risks & possible complications
- General surgical risks: bleeding, infection, and blood clots (deep vein thrombosis).
- Damage to nearby organs such as the bladder, ureters, or intestines.
- Formation of fistulas (abnormal connections between organs).
- Bowel obstruction post-surgery.
- Early menopause and loss of fertility if ovaries are removed.
- Anesthetic complications.
- Potential need for a temporary or permanent colostomy/ileostomy.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Initial hospital stay for monitoring pain, bowel function, and wound healing.
- Progressive mobilization to prevent blood clots and aid recovery.
- Pain management with medications, transitioning to oral painkillers.
- Diet advanced slowly from liquids to solid foods as bowel function returns.
- Incision care instructions to prevent infection.
- Gradual return to light activities over several weeks; heavy lifting is restricted for 6-8 weeks.
- Follow-up appointments to monitor recovery, review pathology results, and plan adjuvant chemotherapy if needed.
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Typical hospital stay: 5-10 days
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Expected recovery time: 6-8 weeks
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering ovarian cancer in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Popular choices for ovarian cancer in India include Cytecare Hospital, known for experienced specialists and advanced surgical infrastructure.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform ovarian cancer. MediFyr helps you compare gynecologic oncologists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for ovarian cancer compare across other countries where we have data.
Top hospitals for Ovarian Cancer in India
These partner hospitals in India have dedicated gynecologic oncology teams and experience managing patients undergoing ovarian cancer.
Emily Brown, a 42-year-old elementary school...
Emily Brown, a 42-year-old elementary school teacher and mother of two young children, had been experiencing persistent bloating, pelvic pressure, and a frequent need to urinate for several months. Initially attributing it to stress or perimenopause, she grew concerned when the bloating didn't subside and she began feeling full quickly after eating. Her primary care physician ordered a pelvic ultrasound, which revealed a complex mass on her left ovary. She was referred to a gynecologic oncologist, Dr. Chen. After reviewing her scans and elevated CA-125 blood test, Dr. Chen recommended a comprehensive staging surgery, including a total hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, and omentectomy, to diagnose and potentially treat what was suspected to be ovarian cancer. The surgery confirmed Stage IIIC ovarian cancer. Emily underwent six rounds of chemotherapy post-surgery. Her recovery was physically taxing, with surgical pain and chemo side effects like fatigue and nausea. Emotionally, she was terrified for her future and her children, feeling a profound sense of vulnerability. After completing treatment, her scans showed no evidence of disease. While living with the anxiety of recurrence, Emily found a new appreciation for daily moments with her family. She joined a support group, which helped her process her fear and grief, and she returned to teaching part-time, channeling her experience into greater empathy for others.
Gynecologic Oncologists for Ovarian Cancer
Explore experienced gynecologic oncologists who regularly perform ovarian cancer and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 44 Years Experience
- Gynecologic Oncologist
Artemis Hospital Gurgaon, Gurgaon
- 29 Years Experience
- Gynecologic Oncologist
Artemis Hospital Gurgaon, Gurgaon
- 8 Years Experience
- Gynecologic Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 9 Years Experience
- Gynecologic Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 14 Years Experience
- Gynecologic Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Salt Lake, Kolkata
- 18 Years Experience
- Gynecologic Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Salt Lake, Kolkata
- 18 Years Experience
- Gynecologic Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Salt Lake, Kolkata
- 13 Years Experience
- Gynecologic Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Dwarka, Delhi
- 18 Years Experience
- Gynecologic Oncologist
Manipal Hospital EM Bypass, Kolkata
- 18 Years Experience
- Gynecologic Oncologist
Manipal Hospitals Broadway, Kolkata
- 8 Years Experience
- Gynecologic Oncologist
Manipal Hospitals Broadway, Kolkata