Is surgery necessary for teratoma

Whether a teratoma requires surgery depends on the specific circumstances. If it is a benign teratoma with no growth, surgery is usually not required. If it is an immature teratoma with continued growth, surgery must be performed.

Teratomas originate from germ cell tumors. When germ cells differentiate abnormally, it leads to the formation of tumors. Clinically, they can be divided into mature teratomas and immature teratomas. Mature teratomas are composed of differentiated structures of the ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm, with a round or oval surface and a tough texture. If there is no continuous growth, it will have little effect on other parts of the body. Surgery is usually not required, and you can go to the hospital for regular checkups to observe changes in the condition.

Immature teratomas are mostly unilateral, large in size, with a soft or hard cross-section. Clinically, they are malignant tumors that continue to grow. As the tumor grows, it will compress adjacent organs, leading to difficulty urinating or defecating. This phenomenon requires surgery to control tumor growth. Common surgeries include resection of the affected side’s appendages and tumor resection.

After the operation, you should pay more attention to rest, reduce physical activity, and eat light and easy-to-digest food.