An ovarian fibroma is a rare, benign tumor of the ovary. Most commonly found in women in their 50s during perimenopause (transition to menopause) or postmenopause, ovarian fibromas account for approximately four percent of all ovarian tumors.
Often, ovarian fibromas do not cause symptoms, but they sometimes can cause pelvic pain or discomfort – especially if they are associated with ovarian torsion (twisting). In some cases, ovarian fibromas can be part of Meigs Syndrome, a triad of ovarian fibroma, ascites (accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity), and pleural effusion (excess fluid buildup around the lungs).
Ovarian fibromas are usually diagnosed through imaging, including ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Sometimes, they are initially detected during palpation (feeling with fingers or hands) performed as part of a pelvic examination.
Treatment of ovarian fibromas may involve surgical removal of the fibroma. Minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopic surgery, can minimize the size of incisions and provide a faster recovery. In the case of Meigs Syndrome, removal of the ovarian fibroma generally resolves the other aspects of the condition as well.
An ovarian fibroma should be evaluated and treated by a gynecologic surgeon who is experienced in removing fibroids or fibrous tumors from the ovaries and other parts of the female reproductive system.
The Division of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery provides comprehensive care for women with ovarian fibromas, uterine fibroids, abnormal uterine bleeding, pelvic pain, endometriosis, pelvic organ prolapse, cervical incompetence, and ovarian cysts – offering the latest minimally invasive options for these conditions.
When a patient’s condition calls for a hysterectomy, we strive to provide a safer and more effective alternative to traditional open surgery by performing the vast majority of our procedures via laparoscopy. We get referrals from other providers for complicated cases that would otherwise be performed via a large abdominal incision. We are leaders in developing innovative minimally invasive procedures that offer our patients:
We also collaborate with our gynecologic oncology surgical specialists, who offer robotic surgery as a means to treat patients with endometrial or cervical cancer.
The faculty members and researchers at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology are dedicated to doing everything possible to provide women and their families with the most advanced care available anywhere.
As a teaching hospital of Harvard Medical School, we are world-renowned for our expertise in gynecology and pregnancy, and have been a trusted name in women’s health for more than 180 years. Our rich history includes landmark research that has helped guide the care provided to women around the world. Learn more about our research.
Our commitment to patient- and family-focused care has shaped our Center for Women and Newborns at the Mary Horrigan Connors Center for Women’s Health – world-renowned for the quality of our obstetrical and neonatal care and dedicated to the most comprehensive state-of-the-art obstetrical services under one roof. Brigham and Women’s Hospital is the birthing center most women in Massachusetts choose and U.S. News & World Report has repeatedly named Brigham and Women’s Hospital among the top hospitals in the nation in Gynecology.
BWH has long been committed to not only the care of our patients but also the many other needs that they and their families have. This philosophy of patient- and family-focused care – involving systems and services that emphasize healing in a comfortable, relaxed environment – is a guiding force behind the care we provide.
BWH is committed to providing all of our patients with the safest, highest-quality, most-satisfying care possible and follow established protocols that have been shown to improve patient outcomes. Our Inpatient Satisfaction Survey, sent to patients’ to assess their total care experience, helps us to monitor what we are doing well and where we could improve. We pride ourselves in the Quality of Patient Care we provide and how we compare with other hospitals.
If you believe you should have an evaluation and would like to schedule an appointment with one of our experts, call 1-800-294-9999 to speak to one of our knowledgeable coordinators who can help to connect you to the doctor that best meets your needs, or fill out an online appointment request.
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