Post-resection outcomes for pediatric ovarian neoplasm: is ovarian-preserving surgery a good option?

Nima Azarakhsh1, Sandra Grimes1, Pranit N Chotai1,2

  • 1Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 49 N Dunlap Street, Second Floor, Memphis, TN, USA.

Insights

Pediatric ovarian tumor surgery shows good intermediate outcomes. Most patients reported good quality of life, but long-term fertility and dysmenorrhea monitoring is needed.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Gynecologic Oncology
  • Reproductive Health

Background:

  • Pediatric surgeons frequently manage ovarian tumors in children.
  • Limited data exists on long-term outcomes for these young patients.
  • This study evaluates intermediate-term results following pediatric ovarian neoplasm resection.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To characterize intermediate-term outcomes for children treated surgically for ovarian neoplasms.
  • To assess recurrence, dysmenorrhea, quality of life, and fertility post-surgery.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective identification of pediatric patients who underwent ovarian neoplasm surgery.
  • Telephone survey to assess post-surgical outcomes.
  • Data collection on recurrence, dysmenorrhea, quality of life, and fertility.

Main Results:

  • 79 patients met inclusion criteria; 31 had ovarian-sparing surgery, 48 had oophorectomy.
  • Five recurrences were reported.
  • 56 patients interviewed at a median 4.6-year follow-up; good quality of life reported.
  • Dysmenorrhea reported in 52% (ovarian-sparing) and 78% (oophorectomy); two patients experienced infertility.

Conclusions:

  • Intermediate-term outcomes for pediatric ovarian tumor surgery (ovarian-sparing or oophorectomy) are generally favorable.
  • Long-term monitoring is recommended to better evaluate fertility and dysmenorrhea.
  • Further research is needed for comprehensive long-term assessment.
Abstract

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