Innovative Procedure Combines Ovarian Cancer Risk Reduction and Caesarean Section

Four women underwent successful combined surgery at UCLH.

They gave birth through caesarean section while simultaneously receiving ovarian cancer risk reduction surgery.

In a groundbreaking medical development, doctors have successfully performed simultaneous surgery for both Caesarean section deliveries and ovarian cancer risk reduction in four women.

This pioneering two-in-one procedure is the first of its kind documented in the medical field, and the results have been published in the latest edition of the Obstetrics and Gynecology journal.

A Pioneering Procedure

Four women underwent a simultaneous Caesarean section and surgery to reduce their risk of ovarian cancer. This innovative approach aimed to address the genetic predisposition to ovarian cancer and avoid the need for a separate, standard risk-reducing operation, which typically involves removing the fallopian tubes and ovaries.

The procedure was led by Prof Adam Rosenthal at University College London Hospital. The surgery, lasting approximately an hour, was performed under spinal anesthesia, ensuring the patients' comfort and pain relief throughout. This combined operation, performed during the birth of the patients' children, marked a significant advancement in medical practice.

During the procedure, the surgeons lifted the top of the uterus out of the abdomen to make the fallopian tubes and ovaries easily accessible. However, performing this surgery during a Caesarean section is not without challenges, as pregnancy-induced physical changes can lead to increased blood vessels' size. Careful ligation or cauterization of these blood vessels is crucial to prevent complications.

The Importance of Early Intervention

The four women who underwent this innovative procedure were at a higher risk of ovarian cancer due to genetic factors. The decision to have this combined surgery was motivated by the desire for early risk reduction after giving birth and having all the children they planned for. By opting for simultaneous surgery, they eliminated the need for a separate procedure and the associated concerns.

Women who inherit certain gene variants, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2, face an increased risk of developing ovarian and breast cancer during their lifetime. Although the presence of these gene variants does not guarantee cancer, the risk is significantly higher. Early intervention and risk reduction procedures, like this innovative surgery, can provide peace of mind for high-risk individuals.

Looking Ahead

The groundbreaking surgery not only offers a new approach to addressing ovarian cancer risk but also serves as an example of the possibilities of preventive medicine for high-risk populations. It empowers individuals with options for risk management and highlights the importance of early genetic testing for hereditary cancer risk.

This pioneering procedure at a London hospital represents a significant step forward in the field of gynecological and obstetric surgery. By addressing the risks of ovarian cancer during a Caesarean section, these innovative surgeons have provided a valuable option for high-risk individuals to manage their health and future.