This protocol addresses management of a follicular ovarian cyst in an adolescent female — a common presentation in this age group. The majority of ovarian cysts in adolescents are follicular cysts, which occur due to a maturing follicle's failure to ovulate and involute.
In adolescent patients, preserving future reproductive function is a central concern when selecting the approach to a follicular ovarian cyst. The patient's age and developmental stage shape both the threshold for intervention and the surgical strategy chosen.
When intervention is indicated, a laparoscopic surgical approach with deliberate attention to ovarian tissue preservation is typically the preferred strategy — though the specific method and the decision between available options depend on individual case factors detailed in the full protocol.
DOI: 10.3390/healthcare13070775
The majority of ovarian cysts in adolescents are follicular cysts, which occur due to a maturing follicle's failure to ovulate and involute.
Indications for laparoscopic cystectomy or aspiration are persistence for ≥3 months, size ≥ 6 cm (simple cysts measuring 6 to 12 cm may resolve spontaneously and can be monitored safely in certain patients), pelvic pain, or urinary frequency.
Because of the high recurrence rate in the case of aspiration, laparoscopic cystectomy is usually preferred.
Persistent or non-involuting ovarian cysts should be treated through cystectomy and ovarian tissue preservation.
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