AST Surgical Technologist Practice Exam

What organs are excised if an ovarian tumor is malignant?

1. Ovaries and uterus

2. Bilateral fallopian tubes and ovaries, uterus

3. Ovaries and cervix

4. Uterus and fallopian tubes

The correct answer is: Bilateral fallopian tubes and ovaries, uterus

When dealing with a malignant ovarian tumor, the standard surgical approach involves a comprehensive excision to ensure that all potentially cancerous tissues are removed. This typically includes the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and often the uterus. The rationale behind this extensive removal is to minimize the risk of cancerous cells spreading to nearby organs or tissue. The inclusion of the fallopian tubes in the excision is significant because recent studies have indicated that many ovarian tumors may actually originate in the fallopian tubes. Thus, removing both the ovaries and fallopian tubes together helps to reduce the likelihood of leaving behind cancer cells that could lead to recurrence. Additionally, depending on the extent of the malignancy and the staging of cancer, the uterus may also be excised. In comparison, other options do not provide the same level of thoroughness in addressing a malignant ovarian tumor. For example, removal of only the ovaries and cervix would leave the fallopian tubes intact, which could retain cancer cells. Similarly, excising just the uterus and fallopian tubes would omit the ovaries, which are crucial to removing in cases of ovarian malignancy. Therefore, the comprehensive excision outlined in the correct choice is necessary for effective treatment and management of malignant ovarian tumors.