Removal of the bartholin gland cyst

Bartholin's glands are located at the base of the labia majora. They secrete lubrication into the vagina. Blockage of these ducts can lead to cyst formation and sometimes inflammation. The most effective method of treatment is surgery to remove a Bartholin's cyst. At the "Dobrobut" medical network, specialists will choose an optimal intervention technique based on individual characteristics and examination results.

Causes of Cyst Formation:

Bartholinitis is a condition characterized by gland inflammation, painful swelling, and external swelling of the genitalia. In acute cases, the cyst enlarges and causes discomfort during walking, urination, and intercourse. Fever and pus formation might occur.

Factors that may lead to inflammatory processes and bartholinitis include:

• Sexually transmitted infections (mycoplasmosis, chlamydia).
• Endocrine disorders (diabetes, thyroid diseases).
• Pathogenic microorganisms (staphylococcus, streptococcus).
• Injuries, surgical interventions on the genital organs, abortions.
• Poor intimate hygiene.
• Wearing synthetic or tight underwear.
• Reduced immunity, hypothermia.

Lack of treatment can lead to chronic bartholinitis. Timely surgical removal of a Bartholin's cyst is important.

Indications and Contraindications for Surgery:

Surgical intervention is advised in the following cases after diagnosing bartholinitis:

• lesions over 4 cm causing discomfort during physical activity and not responding to prolonged pharmacological treatment;
• recurrent bartholinitis with genital infection;
• gland abscess;
• cyst rupture;
• risk of the cyst becoming malignant.

Contraindications for surgical removal of the cyst include:

• oncology;
• infectious-inflammatory diseases of the urogenital system;
• acute stage of chronic pathology;
• coagulation disorders;
• menstruation;
• pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Preliminary diagnostics with testing are necessary to confirm bartholinitis, inflammation extent, and treatment methods.

Treatment Methods:

If bartholinitis symptoms appear, visit a doctor immediately. Based on test results and examination data, an optimal therapy plan will be decided.

Conservative therapy options include physiotherapy and medications for reducing inflammation: antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-edematous, and immunomodulatory treatments.

Surgery is advised when there are signs of inflammation, cyst enlargement, or infection risk to surrounding tissues and organs due to an abscess. Timely cyst removal prevents severe complications like cervical and other structural damage, sepsis, and other issues.

Preparation for Cyst Removal:

The gynecologist examines bartholinitis complaints, conducts a thorough examination, and orders tests: blood, urine, microbiological swab, PCR tests, coagulogram, etc. The chosen surgical technique for Bartholin's cyst removal depends on test results and patient-specific data.

Three days before surgery, limit sexual and physical activities, avoid tampons and cosmetic procedures in the intimate area, and stop anticoagulant use.

How the Surgery is Performed:

Common methods include laser treatment and scalpel incision. Surgery details and costs depend on the method. Usually, it's done between the 7th to 10th day of the menstrual cycle after all tests.

Laser Excision of Bartholin's Cyst:

This modern, minimally invasive procedure requires no cuts or tissue contact. Under laser heat, the cyst contents evaporate, and its walls dry up.

Laser Method Advantages:

• precise depth and area control over affected regions;
• surrounding healthy tissues remain intact;
• non-contact effect;
• no bleeding due to laser coagulating vessels;
• minimal complication risk;
• no heavy scarring;
• quick recovery period.

Scalpel Cyst Removal:

A more classic technique involving a 3-5 mm incision in the cyst wall using a scalpel under local anesthesia. The doctor drains the cavity contents, rinses it with antiseptic, and inserts a catheter to form a new gland duct and prevent wall adhesion. The catheter is removed after 4-5 weeks.

Recovery from scalpel cyst removal takes longer than laser surgery. During the initial 1.5-2 weeks, the patient may experience genital discomfort, moderate pain, and bleeding. Twice-daily antiseptic treatment of stitches is required.

Rehabilitation Period:

Post-surgery recovery for Bartholin's cyst lasts 1.5-3 weeks. The doctor prescribes antibiotics and analgesics shortly after surgery, and might recommend therapeutic baths. Full healing occurs in 3-4 weeks, depending on the patient's physical traits.

Recommended guidelines during recovery:

• abstain from sexual activity, strenuous exercises, and pool visits.
• Avoid vaginal suppositories and tampons.
• Use gentle intimate hygiene products.
• Maintain wound care.

Distinctive treatment features in the "Dobrobut" network include:

• experienced physicians;
• advanced technology and equipment use;
• tailored intervention techniques;
• high effectiveness;
• comfortable inpatient conditions with strict hygiene standards.

At a consultation, Dobrobut gynecologists will conduct an examination, provide comprehensive information, professional advice, and prescribe effective treatment.