This protocol addresses a well-defined clinical scenario: an ovarian mass that is asymptomatic, less than 10 cm in diameter, and characterised as benign on ultrasound. This presentation carries a distinct, evidence-based management pathway that differs from larger or symptomatic masses.
The patient has an asymptomatic ovarian mass under 10 cm in diameter, with features consistent with a benign aetiology on ultrasound imaging. In this setting, the mass does not require surgical removal.
The recommended approach in this scenario involves conservative (expectant) management — the specific criteria, monitoring strategy, and decision points that guide this approach are detailed in full in the structured protocol below.
The clinical objective is resolution or stable, unchanged appearance of the ovarian mass on ultrasound, without the development of malignant features over time. The majority of masses characterised as benign on ultrasound will resolve or remain stable, particularly in the asymptomatic patient.