Laparoscopic management of benign cystic teratomas during pregnancy

Benign cystic teratomas of the ovary may be safely removed via laparoscopy during pregnancy. Benign cystic teratomas of the ovary may complicate pregnancies after the first trimester by twisting or rupturing, obstructing delivery, or harboring malignancy. Researchers performed laparoscopy on 12 women with benign cystic teratomas between nine and 17 weeks of pregnancy. Cysts ruptured during surgery in 10 women, but no one experienced abdominal infection postoperatively. Thorough irrigation of the abdomen during surgery seemed to prevent infection from developing. Ultrasonography can be used to diagnose benign cystic teratomas before surgery. To reduce the risk of miscarriage, surgery should be done at the beginning of the second trimester while the uterus is still small.