Ovarian cysts are fluid filled sacs formed within the ovaries. They can be benign or cancerous growths. Cystectomy is a procedure of removing benign cysts along with cyst wall while conserving the ovary. Whereas, oophorectomy is removing the entire ovary. In case of malignancy, more extensive surgery may be needed. Laparoscopy helps to confirm the diagnosis. Benign cysts need to be removed when

• When they are more than 5 cm
• Not resolving within a few months
• Causing symptoms like pain
• Causing difficulties in conception
• Growing in size
• Solid cysts rather than containing fluid
• Any suspicious cyst on ultrasound

Smaller cysts can be removed through laparoscopy. When there is suspicion of malignancy, laparotomy, that is a larger incision may be needed to remove the cyst without spilling its contents and thus spreading the cancer.