Combined technique of excision and ablation for the surgical treatment of ovarian endometriomas: the way forward?

Surgical treatment of ovarian endometriosis has been associated with damage to the ovarian tissue and premature ovarian failure in young patients. A modified surgical technique that combines cyst excision with ablation for the surgical treatment of ovarian endometriomas is presented, with the aim of reducing possible damage to the ovarian tissue without jeopardizing the results of surgery in terms of subsequent pregnancies and symptom relief. The modified technique is a combination of the excision technique, adopted for most of the procedure, with the coagulation technique, adopted at the ovarian hilus to better preserve normal ovarian tissue and vascularization of the ovary. Postoperative follow-up of patients operated on with this modified technique indicates that the technique is feasible and safe, with no apparent damage to the ovary. (C) 2009, Reproductive Healthcare Ltd. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.