Dermoid Cyst

[makbike]

I learned yesterday that the source of my back/pelvic pain is most likely the result of a tennis ball size dermoid cyst which is attached to my left ovary. Both the cyst and the ovary will be removed laproscopically on June 12. Has anyone undergone this procedure? What should I expect?

Doc has told me I'll need to stay off my bike for three weeks but I'm hoping it will be shorter recovery time. I'll be allowed to drive three days post-op but not allowed to lift anything heavy. I am relieved to finally know the source of my pain but a bit nervous about this outpatient procedure.

[teigyr]

Marcie,

I've gone through that twice but neither surgery could be done laproscopically. After the second surgery (which also included a hysterectomy), I was back on my bike in two weeks. It was totally unauthorized and I couldn't lift my bike off the car, but I wanted to do it. I had a 6" incision too.

I think you will be fine. Please don't push it and listen to your body but it won't be too horrible. I noticed that my stamina was way down due to the anesthetic; I think that took me almost a month to get rid of!

If you have any questions, please feel free to ask. I know you're in good shape from riding and that helps so much too.

Oh, tell the kitties not to climb on your stomach for a while, especially if they do that kneading thing with their paws

[Zen]

I had an endometrial ablation (aka Novasure procedure) done laproscopically and was climbing on the roof cleaning out the gutters three days later.

You'll probably have abdominal muscle soreness from the two tiny incisions through the muscle wall but for me it was a quick recovery. And the best surgery I ever had!

[makbike]

Thanks guys, I feel so much better after reading your posts. I'll just be glad when they remove the tennis ball from my lower gut and the pain is gone.

[Xrayted]

Actually, I was going to mention about the anesthesia side effects too. That will actually take longer to clear your system than the procedure. As for the size of the cyst, you should feel immediate relief but don't take that as a sign that you can do more than you should. The most important time is the week following the procedure. That is when most of the base healing will take place. If you are a very good little girl and follow directions, you will back on the bike in no time. Good luck with the procedure and let us know how you are doing.

[Scarlet]

Hi Makbike,
its fine to think you will be able to drive in 3 days but just make sure you can do an emergency stop (especially if your abdo is still tender!!!)
Also remeber that although you have had the laparascopic procedure done you still have had major surgery inside to disect the dermoid cyst from where it is adhered to ( I am a midwife now and used to be a surgical nurse)
Please listen to the advice of your surgeon and listen to your body too.
It is possible to have a hernia if you strain your incision following surgery and this would make your recovery even slower
so be patient and you will be back cycling sooner than you think

good luck with the op

Scarlet