Ovarian cancer surgery diagrams
Understanding your surgery options can make a big difference when you’re facing ovarian cancer. This page walks you through the main operations with simple, labelled diagrams so you can see what each procedure involves and why it might be recommended. Every person’s situation is unique, and your surgical plan will be tailored by your gynaecological oncology team.
The diagrams cover:
- Oophorectomy
- Salpingo-oophorectomy
- Hysterectomy
- Hysterectomy with salpingo-oophorectomy
- Radical hysterectomy with salpingo-oophorectomy
Use these visuals to help you prepare questions for your next appointment. They’re a guide, not a substitute for medical advice, your surgeon will explain the approach that’s safest and most suitable for you.
The ovaries are two small glands that form part of the female reproductive system, which is also made up of the vagina, cervix, uterus (womb) and Fallopian tubes.
The surgical removal of an ovary is called an oophorectomy. When both ovaries are taken out during surgery this is called a bilateral-oophorectomy.
The operation to remove an ovary and Fallopian tube is called a salpingo-oophorectomy. A bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (BSO)is when both ovaries and Fallopian tubes are taken out.
A hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus (womb). During a total hysterectomy, the womb and cervix are removed.
A total hysterectomy with a bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy is an operation to remove the womb, cervix, Fallopian tubes and ovaries.
During a radical hysterectomy with a salpingo-oophorectomy, the womb, cervix and part of your vagina are removed, as well as your ovaries, Fallopian tubes, lymph nodes and some fatty tissue.
The side view of internal organs.
