bilateral oophorectomy
Surgical removal of both ovaries, performed for treatment or prevention of gynecologic cancers or as part of comprehensive staging procedures.
Full Definition
Bilateral oophorectomy is the surgical procedure involving removal of both ovaries, which may be performed for therapeutic, prophylactic, or staging purposes in gynecologic oncology. The procedure is indicated for treatment of ovarian malignancies, as prophylactic surgery in high-risk patients (such as BRCA mutation carriers), or as part of comprehensive surgical staging for other gynecologic cancers. When performed in premenopausal women, bilateral oophorectomy results in immediate surgical menopause with associated hormonal effects. The procedure can be accomplished through various surgical approaches including open, laparoscopic, or robotic techniques, often in combination with other procedures such as hysterectomy or comprehensive staging surgery.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from salpingo-oophorectomy, which includes fallopian tube removal.
In Context
- "The patient elected for prophylactic bilateral oophorectomy at age 40 due to her BRCA1 mutation status." — Surgical planning
- "Staging surgery included total hysterectomy with bilateral oophorectomy and comprehensive lymph node assessment." — Operative report