Laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy in children.

OBJECTIVES

To present our technique and experience with laparoscopic treatment of ovarian cysts in pediatric patients. Ovarian cysts are rare but important in the consideration of pelvic cystic masses in patients of all ages. The laparoscopic management of these cysts in young girls has been slow to gain popularity despite the well-known advantages of this surgical approach for other abdominal and pelvic pathologic findings.

METHODS

We present our technique and experience with 2 pediatric patients who underwent laparoscopic treatment of pelvic cystic masses that were found to be ovarian cysts.

RESULTS

One patient presented with a large cyst in adolescence, and the other with a complex cyst as a neonate. The final pathologic examination revealed the presence of a simple, benign ovarian cyst in both cases. Neither patient had any complications.

CONCLUSIONS

The laparoscopic approach to the simple benign ovarian cyst is safe and effective in all pediatric age groups.