Beware of the four major complications after ovarian cancer surgery

Ovarian cancer poses a serious threat to women's health. Like surgical treatments for other cancers, ovarian cancer surgery causes greater trauma and some complications after surgery, mainly:

Malignant lesions

Malignant transformation of benign ovarian tumors often occurs in older patients, especially postmenopausal patients. The tumor grows rapidly in a short period of time, causing the patient to feel abdominal distension and loss of appetite. Examination shows that the tumor volume has increased significantly and there is often ascites. Patients suspected of malignant lesions should be treated promptly.

Tumor rupture

Tumor rupture is a common complication after ovarian cancer surgery. It may be caused by spontaneous rupture due to ischemic necrosis of the cyst wall or tumor erosion and penetration of the intestinal wall; or by traumatic rupture due to squeezing during delivery, gynecological examination, and puncture. The cyst fluid then flows into the abdominal cavity and irritates the peritoneum, causing severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and even shock.

Pedicled torsion

Pedicle torsion is common in cystic tumors with long pedicles, medium size, high mobility, and a center of gravity biased to one side. It often occurs when the body position changes suddenly, such as in early pregnancy or after delivery. Due to the obstruction of venous return from the tumor, it causes congestion, purple-brown color, and even ruptured blood vessels and bleeding. It can cause necrosis and infection of the tumor due to arterial obstruction. In addition, patients with acute pedicle torsion may experience sudden abdominal pain, and in severe cases, vomiting, nausea, and even shock.

Infect

Infection is rare, and symptoms include fever, abdominal pain, elevated white blood cell count, and varying degrees of peritonitis. Infection should be actively controlled after surgery.