A surgical procedure to remove the ovary/ovaries is called ovariotomy or oophorectomy. Ovaries help a woman to store and release the eggs. They act as a part of the reproductive system. Female sex hormones are produced by the ovaries. Usually, the procedure is performed using abdominal laparoscopy. Complicated cases may require robotic surgery or abdominal laparotomy.
The procedure is usually chosen for patients who have endometriosis or ovarian cancer. The procedure may have common surgical risks. Other risks and complications of oophorectomy are:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Premature ageing
- Dementia
- Parkinsonism
- Sexuality impairment
- Bone fracture and osteoporosis
Non-hormonal medications are used to minimize the surgical risks of oophorectomy. Hormonal replacement therapies may also be suggested.