Laparoscopic management of ovarian masses: the initial experience and learning curve

Fifty two consecutive patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery for ovarian masses were reviewed. The operative time depended on the experience of the surgeon and size of the tumour. It dropped progressively within the first 10 cases and then remained static until after 40 cases when there was a further decline. Postoperative pain was minimal and the median hospital stay was 2 days (range 1-7 days). The majority of patients returned to full activity within 2 weeks. The overall morbidity was 7.8% and was mild in nature without sequelae.