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Updated: Nov 9, 2025
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Published on: January 22, 2022
Role of minimally invasive surgery in early ovarian cancer
Chul Kwon Lim1, Dae Yeon Kim1, Angela Cho1
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Korea.
Abstract:
Despite having revolutionized the management of multiple types of gynecologic cancers laparoscopy and robotic surgery have had limited utility in ovarian cancer until recently. The development in medical technology allows surgeons to perform minimally invasive surgery (MIS) not only in early ovarian cancer, but also in advanced ovarian cancer. Thus far, most prospective studies showed feasible results of MIS in ovarian cancer. Even with many proven advantages of the MIS, there is no concrete evidence of the disparity in survival rate between laparoscopic, robotic surgery and laparotomy surgery. We reviewed the results of MIS in ovarian cancer thus far and suggest how the gynecologists can apply MIS in ovarian cancer in the future. Until the further prospective studies show solid evidence of safety in the MIS in ovarian cancer, comprehensive discussion about the benefits and risk with the patient and the level of surgical skill of the gynecologist should be considered in determining the type of surgery.
Insights
Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is now feasible for early and advanced ovarian cancer. While MIS offers advantages, further research is needed to confirm survival rates compared to traditional laparotomy.
Area of Science:
- Gynecologic Oncology
- Surgical Technology
Background:
- Laparoscopy and robotic surgery have transformed gynecologic cancer management but had limited application in ovarian cancer until recently.
- Advancements in medical technology now enable minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for both early and advanced stages of ovarian cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current utility and feasibility of MIS in ovarian cancer treatment.
- To provide insights for gynecologists on applying MIS in ovarian cancer management.
Main Methods:
- Review of prospective studies on minimally invasive surgery in ovarian cancer.
- Analysis of current evidence regarding feasibility and outcomes.
Main Results:
- Most prospective studies indicate that MIS is feasible for ovarian cancer.
- Proven advantages of MIS exist, but direct comparative survival data against laparotomy is lacking.
Conclusions:
- MIS is increasingly applicable to ovarian cancer, offering potential benefits.
- Further prospective studies are essential to establish definitive safety and survival evidence for MIS in ovarian cancer.
- Patient counseling on risks, benefits, and surgeon expertise is crucial when selecting surgical approaches.
