TriangleFOR PATIENTS · SOURCE READING
Surgery
Source: Ovarian Borderline Tumors Treatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version, National Cancer Institute.
Source updated: April 10, 2025 · Captured 2026-09-09.
Selected source text with whitespace normalised. This Triangle page is not an NCI PDQ summary. Independent clinical review is pending.
Context: Treatment Option Overview / The following types of treatment are used:
The type of surgery (removing the tumor in an operation) depends on the size and spread of the tumor and the patient's plans for having children. Surgery may include:
Unilateral salpingo-oophorectomy is surgery to remove one ovary and one fallopian tube.
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Bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy is surgery to remove both ovaries and both fallopian tubes.
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Total hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy is surgery to remove the uterus, cervix, and both ovaries and fallopian tubes. If the uterus and cervix are taken out through the vagina, the operation is called a vaginal hysterectomy. If the uterus and cervix are taken out through a large incision (cut) in the abdomen, the operation is called a total abdominal hysterectomy. If the uterus and cervix are taken out through a small incision (cut) in the abdomen using a laparoscope, the operation is called a total laparoscopic hysterectomy.
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Partial oophorectomy is surgery to remove part of one ovary or part of both ovaries.
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Omentectomy is surgery to remove the omentum (a tissue layer that lines the abdominal wall).
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After the doctor removes all disease that can be seen at the time of the surgery, the patient may be given chemotherapy (also called chemo) after surgery to kill any tumor cells that are left. Treatment given after the surgery to lower the risk that the tumor will come back is called adjuvant therapy.
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Preserved source evidence · Independent clinical review pending · Not medical advice