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Research Article | Volume 15 Issue 9 (September, 2025) | Pages 277 - 286
Laparoscopic Management of Benign Adnexal Masses - it's Outcome and Histopathological Correlation: A Prospective Observational Study
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1
Associate Professor, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Calcutta National Medical College, Kolkata
2
Associate Professor, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, IPGMER & SSKM Hospital, Kolkata
3
Associate Professor, Department of Cardiothoracic & Vascular Surgery, IPGMER & SSKM Hospital, Kolkata
4
Post Graduate Trainee (final year), Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Calcutta National Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata
5
Assistant professor, Department of Cardiology, IPGMER & SSKM Hospital, Kolkata.
6
Senior Resident, Department of Pathology, Burdwan Medical College, Burdwan
Under a Creative Commons license
Open Access
Received
May 15, 2025
Revised
June 12, 2025
Accepted
June 28, 2025
Published
Sept. 11, 2025
Abstract

Background: Benign adnexal masses—comprising ovarian, tubal, and paraovarian lesions—constitute a prevalent spectrum of gynecological pathologies in women of reproductive and menopausal transition age groups. With the ascension of minimally invasive surgery, laparoscopy has increasingly supplanted conventional laparotomy owing to its demonstrable superiority in perioperative morbidity and convalescence metrics (Eskander et al., 2020¹; AlHilli et al., 2021²). Objectives: This study was designed to scrutinize the clinical efficacy and histopathological correlation of laparoscopic intervention in benign adnexal masses, delineating the operative nuances, pathological spectrum, and diagnostic concordance between preoperative imaging and definitive histology. Methods: A single-center, prospective observational study was conducted between July 2023 and December 2024 at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, CNMCH, Kolkata. A cohort of 38 patients, aged 15–50 years and diagnosed with benign adnexal lesions (<12 cm), underwent laparoscopic excision. Preoperative assessments included ultrasonography, CA-125 assays, and clinical evaluation. Outcomes were measured in terms of operative duration, blood loss, hospitalization span, complications, and histopathological verification. Results: The mean operative duration was 46.1 ± 9.31 minutes, with average intraoperative blood loss of 44.9 ± 8.42 mL. Concordance between imaging-based diagnosis and histopathological confirmation was observed in 84.2% of cases. The predominant histological entities included serous cystadenoma (39.5%), endometrioma (36.8%), and mature cystic teratoma (18.4%). The incidence of intraoperative complications was low, and postoperative recovery parameters were favorable. Statistically significant correlations were noted between mass complexity and surgical morbidity indicators (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Laparoscopic management of benign adnexal pathology is not only clinically efficacious and surgically safe but also exhibits a high concordance with histopathological outcomes. Nevertheless, definitive diagnosis mandates histological evaluation, given the risk of underdiagnosed borderline malignancies. This study reinforces laparoscopy as the modality of choice for adnexal mass excision in carefully selected patients.

Keywords
INTRODUCTION

Benign adnexal masses, encompassing non-malignant lesions of ovarian, tubal, or paraovarian origin, represent a ubiquitous clinical encounter in both reproductive-age and perimenopausal women. These lesions, although frequently asymptomatic, may manifest across a symptomatologic continuum from incidental imaging findings to acute abdominal catastrophes, such as torsion or rupture (Eskander et al., 2020¹; AlHilli et al., 2021²). The etiological spectrum ranges from functional cysts to congenital and inflammatory pathologies, each necessitating nuanced clinical discernment.

 

Historically, laparotomy constituted the cornerstone of surgical intervention. However, with the proliferation of endoscopic surgical paradigms, laparoscopy has become entrenched as the preferred therapeutic modality. Its ascendancy is predicated upon multiple perioperative advantages, including diminished tissue trauma, expedited convalescence, attenuated analgesic requirements, and superior cosmetic outcomes (Nezhat et al., 2019³). Furthermore, laparoscopy facilitates ovarian tissue preservation—paramount in younger women desiring future fertility (Matsuo et al., 2021⁴).

 

Nonetheless, while advanced imaging modalities and tumor marker assays (e.g., CA-125) augment preoperative diagnostic algorithms, the gold standard for etiological confirmation remains histopathological examination (Tang et al., 2022⁵). The potential for diagnostic discordance, especially in morphologically ambiguous masses, underscores the necessity of post-surgical tissue evaluation.

 

From a pathological standpoint, benign adnexal neoplasms display an array of macroscopic morphologies that often correlate with their histogenetic origins. Serous cystadenomas typically present as unilocular, thin-walled cysts containing clear, straw-colored serous fluid, with smooth internal linings and an absence of excrescences or mural nodules. Mucinous cystadenomas, by contrast, are frequently multilocular, large, and gelatinous, characterized by viscous mucin-filled chambers that can occupy substantial intra-abdominal space. The sheer volume and compartmentalization of mucinous lesions often complicate laparoscopic retrieval, necessitating meticulous decompression techniques to avoid peritoneal contamination.

 

Endometriomas, a frequent benign entity associated with ectopic endometrial tissue, are grossly typified by thick-walled, chocolate-brown cysts resulting from repeated cyclical hemorrhage. These "chocolate cysts" often exhibit dense adhesions to adjacent pelvic structures, posing technical challenges in laparoscopic excision. Mature cystic teratomas (dermoid cysts) are readily identifiable by their heterogeneous contents, including sebaceous material, hair, and, less commonly, teeth or cartilage. The breach of these cysts during surgery can precipitate chemical peritonitis, making their en bloc removal imperative. Thus, an understanding of the macroscopic characteristics not only guides intraoperative strategy but also portends potential complications that necessitate histopathological vigilance.

 

The imperative of this study lies in evaluating the laparoscopic excision of presumed benign adnexal masses through a dual lens—surgical performance metrics and histopathological fidelity. It seeks to appraise the operative outcomes, dissect the pathological diversity of excised masses, and assess the preoperative diagnostic accuracy vis-à-vis final histopathology.

 

In an era where surgical minimalism is increasingly valorized, the elucidation of these parameters is critical for refining patient selection, optimizing perioperative care, and advancing evidence-based gynecological practice.

 

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

General Aim:

To conduct a rigorous, evidence-oriented appraisal of laparoscopic surgical intervention in the management of benign adnexal masses, with a dual emphasis on operative efficacy and histopathological validation, thereby establishing a clinically meaningful correlation between intraoperative performance metrics and definitive pathological diagnoses.

 

Specific Objectives:

  1. To quantitatively evaluate the procedural success rate of laparoscopic excision in achieving complete and complication-free resection of benign adnexal lesions, and to delineate the anatomical and clinical determinants influencing surgical completeness.
  2. To analyze operative kinetics, including intraoperative duration and length of postoperative hospitalization, in relation to intrinsic patient variables (e.g., age, BMI, prior abdominal surgery) and lesion-specific characteristics (e.g., mass size, complexity, laterality).
  3. To stratify and characterize the histopathological profiles of excised adnexal masses, encompassing prevalent benign neoplastic entities such as serous and mucinous cystadenomas, endometriomas, and mature teratomas, while documenting any incidental discovery of borderline or atypical histological variants.
  4. To establish a robust clinicopathological nexus, wherein intraoperative observations and preoperative imaging findings are critically examined against final histopathological diagnoses, thereby identifying the predictive fidelity of preoperative diagnostic modalities and evaluating their impact on surgical planning and postoperative prognosis.
METHODOLOGY

Study Design and Contextual Framework

This investigation was conceptualized as a prospective, single-institution observational study, executed within the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Calcutta National Medical College and Hospital (CNMCH), Kolkata. The methodological architecture adhered to stringent academic and ethical standards, encompassing a study duration from 1st July 2023 to 30th December 2024, targeting an anatomically and pathologically well-defined cohort of women diagnosed with benign adnexal masses.

 

Eligibility Criteria and Population Stratification

The study population comprised biologically female subjects aged between 15 and 50 years, representing both adolescent and perimenopausal demographics. All participants were referred for diagnostic and therapeutic laparoscopy following radiological suspicion of benign adnexal pathology. Inclusion criteria mandated the presence of adnexal lesions measuring less than 12 cm in greatest dimension, alongside a preoperative characterization consistent with benign histomorphology (e.g., endometriomas, serous or mucinous cystadenomas, dermoid cysts, pyosalpinx, and tubo-ovarian masses).

 

Subjects were required to be surgically fit and to provide informed, written consent. Exclusion criteria encompassed malignant neoplasms, pregnancy, cystic lesions exceeding 12 cm, significant systemic comorbidities precluding laparoscopy, and prior surgical intervention for adnexal pathology, thereby ensuring sample homogeneity and procedural safety.

 

Sample Size Estimation and Sampling Strategy

Sample Size Calculation Equation: Cochrane’s formula n=z2pq/d2

 

Where:

  1. Z=1.96 (for 95% confidence interval)
  2. p=0.89 (prevalence of benign adnexal masses, Nouri et al., 2022)
  3. q=1−p=0.11
  4. d=0.10 (allowable margin of error, 10%)

 

Substituting the values:

n= [{(1.96)2x0.89x0.11}/{0.1}2] = 37.59 ≈ 38 Thus, the minimum required sample size was approximately 38 patients.

 

Substituting these parameters yielded a minimum sample size of 37.59, rounded to 38 participants. A convenience sampling method was employed due to logistical feasibility and the limited timeframe.

 

Study Variables and Operational Definitions

Independent variables included:

  1. Chronological age at the time of surgical intervention
  2. Anthropometric indices, notably BMI
  3. Anatomical characteristics of the mass (size, laterality, cystic vs. complex features)
  4. Parity status and menstrual history
  5. Preoperative sonographic features and tumor marker levels (CA-125)

 

Dependent variables encompassed:

  1. Intraoperative metrics: operative time, estimated blood loss, type of surgery performed, conversion to laparotomy
  2. Postoperative outcomes: duration of hospitalization, wound healing complications, febrile morbidity, return to baseline activity
  3. Histopathological characteristics: final diagnosis, capsular integrity, concordance with preoperative diagnosis

 

Potential covariates included BMI stratification, presence of medical comorbidities, and previous abdominal surgical history, each of which may modulate intraoperative and recovery outcomes.

 

Surgical Protocol and Operative Technique

All procedures were conducted under general anesthesia, employing a standardized laparoscopic protocol. Pneumoperitoneum was established using the Veress needle technique or open Hasson approach, depending on prior surgical history. Intraoperative decision-making regarding cystectomy, oophorectomy, or salpingo-oophorectomy was guided by intraoperative findings, lesion morphology, and fertility considerations. Endobag retrieval was universally utilized to minimize cyst rupture and peritoneal contamination, particularly in cases involving dermoid cysts and suspected endometriomas.

 

Data Acquisition and Documentation

Each participant was assigned a unique case record form encompassing demographic data, clinical presentation, imaging and laboratory findings, intraoperative parameters, histopathological reports, and postoperative course. Data integrity was ensured via double-checking against operative notes and pathology records.

 

Outcome Measures

Primary endpoints were:

  1. Operative efficiency: quantified via total procedural duration and intraoperative hemorrhage volume
  2. Safety profile: incidence of intraoperative complications (e.g., bowel or bladder injury, cyst rupture, hemorrhage necessitating transfusion)
  3. Histopathological verification: accuracy of preoperative diagnosis, lesion classification, capsular integrity, and detection of unexpected borderline or malignant pathology

 

Secondary endpoints included duration of hospitalization, convalescence timeline, and patient satisfaction scores regarding cosmetic outcomes and procedural experience (as recorded in the postoperative questionnaire).

 

Statistical Analysis

All quantitative data were tabulated into a master dataset and analyzed using Jamovi v2.5.1. Descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation, frequency, percentage) were computed for all variables. Inferential analyses—including Chi-square test for categorical variables and Pearson’s correlation for continuous variables—were employed to evaluate associations between surgical parameters and histopathological outcomes. A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

 

Ethical Considerations

This study was granted approval by the Institutional Ethics Committee (IEC) of Calcutta National Medical College and Hospital prior to initiation. All procedures adhered strictly to the Declaration of Helsinki and ICMR ethical guidelines. Participants provided informed written consent, with full disclosure of the procedural intent, risks, and confidentiality safeguards

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

The present prospective investigation encompassed a meticulously curated cohort of 38 biologically female patients aged between 25 and 52 years, each fulfilling stringent inclusion criteria for benign adnexal pathology amenable to laparoscopic intervention. The ensuing section delineates the demographic distribution, clinical characteristics, operative parameters, histopathological spectrum, and correlative analytical outcomes, all subjected to rigorous statistical scrutiny.

 

Demographic Profiling and Anthropometric Parameters

The mean chronological age of participants was computed at 37.2 ± 8.11 years, indicating a predominance of cases in the third and fourth decades, a temporal nexus consistent with the peak incidence of hormonally modulated adnexal pathologies. The 30–39 years age group constituted the maximal demographic subset (39.5%), while 26.3% fell within the 40–49 years bracket, affirming a reproductive-age dominance congruent with the epidemiological trajectory of benign ovarian neoplasia.

 

The mean body mass index (BMI) was 25.4 ± 3.14 kg/m², with 42.1% of participants classified as obese and 31.6% as overweight, implicating a potential iatrogenic challenge in terms of trocar placement, intra-abdominal visualization, and peritoneal insufflation dynamics. The disproportionate prevalence of elevated BMI in this cohort necessitates a contextual interpretation of operative variability.

 

Parameter

Frequency (n = 38)

Percentage (%)

Mean ± SD

Age (years)

 

 

37.2 ± 8.11

15–29 years

12

31.6

 

30–39 years

15

39.5

 

40–49 years

10

26.3

 

≥50 years

1

2.6

 

BMI (kg/m²)

 

 

25.4 ± 3.14

Normal (<25)

10

26.3

 

Overweight (25–29.9)

12

31.6

 

Obese (≥30)

16

42.1

 

Table 1: Age and BMI Distribution of Study Participants

 

Reproductive and Menstrual Profile

Parity analysis revealed that 28.9% of participants were primiparous (P1+0), followed by 21.1% with a parity status of P2+0. Notably, 13.2% were nulliparous, underscoring the importance of fertility-preserving techniques during adnexal mass excision. The absence of statistically significant correlation between parity and perioperative outcomes (χ² test, p > 0.05) suggests procedural feasibility across varying obstetric histories.

 

Regarding cyclicity, 57.9% of subjects reported regular menstrual cycles, while 21.1% experienced irregular menses and an equal proportion were postmenopausal. A statistically significant correlation (p < 0.05) was discerned between menstrual irregularities and complex cyst histology, alluding to potential subclinical endocrine or endometriotic etiologies.

 

Parameter

Frequency (n = 38)

Percentage (%)

Parity Status

 

 

Nulliparous

5

13.2

P1+0

11

28.9

P2+0

8

21.1

Others (≥P3)

14

36.8

Menstrual Pattern

 

 

Regular

22

57.9

Irregular

8

21.1

Postmenopausal

8

21.1

Table 2: Reproductive and Menstrual Characteristics

 

Clinical Presentation and Symptomatology

The leading presenting complaint was asymptomatic adnexal enlargement (21.1%), followed by dysmenorrhea and pelvic pain (each constituting 18.4%). Additional complaints included abdominal bloating (15.8%), pelvic mass (15.8%), abdominal pain (5.3%), and menorrhagia (5.3%). Inferential statistics demonstrated that symptomatic presentations, particularly pain and menorrhagia, correlated positively with complex or endometriotic histology.

 

Symptom duration exhibited a mean value of 5.08 ± 3.29 months, with a near-equidistant bifurcation between those symptomatic for <5 months (52.6%) and ≥5 months (47.4%). Longer symptomatology duration was statistically associated with endometriomas and dermoid cysts (p < 0.01), reinforcing their indolent yet persistent natural history.

 

Clinical Presentation

Frequency (n = 38)

Percentage (%)

Asymptomatic

8

21.1

Dysmenorrhea

7

18.4

Pelvic pain

7

18.4

Abdominal bloating

6

15.8

Pelvic mass

6

15.8

Abdominal pain

2

5.3

Menorrhagia

2

5.3

Symptom Duration

 

 

<5 months

20

52.6

≥5 months

18

47.4

Table 3: Clinical Presentations and Duration of Symptoms

 

Surgical History and Ultrasonographic Findings

A history of prior abdominal surgery was elicited in 36.8% of participants, which significantly influenced intraoperative adhesiolysis requirements and procedural complexity (p < 0.05). Preoperative ultrasonography delineated complex cysts in 42.1%, simple cysts in 39.5%, and dermoid cysts in 18.4%. The diagnostic congruence between sonographic classification and final histopathology was confirmed to be statistically robust (p < 0.001).

 

Parameter

Frequency (n = 38)

Percentage (%)

Prior Abdominal Surgery

 

 

Yes

14

36.8

No

24

63.2

Ultrasonographic Morphology

 

 

Complex cyst

16

42.1

Simple cyst

15

39.5

Dermoid cyst

7

18.4

Table 4: Prior Surgical History and Ultrasonographic Findings

 

Tumor Marker Analysis (CA-125)

Serum CA-125 assays yielded a mean concentration of 68.2 ± 67.4 U/mL, with values ranging from 12 to 220 U/mL. Biochemical stratification revealed that 63.2% of patients had normal CA-125 levels, whereas 10.5% demonstrated mild elevation, 21.1% moderate, and 5.3% significant elevations. Elevated CA-125 values were significantly associated with complex and endometriotic lesions (χ² = 23.7; p < 0.001), highlighting its predictive yet nonspecific character.

 

CA-125 Level Category

Frequency (n = 38)

Percentage (%)

Normal (<35 U/mL)

24

63.2

Mild elevation (35–65)

4

10.5

Moderate (66–100)

8

21.1

Marked elevation (>100)

2

5.3

Mean ± SD

 

68.2 ± 67.4

Table 5: Serum CA-125 Level Stratification

 

Preoperative Diagnostic Impressions

Clinico-radiological evaluations postulated the following diagnostic distribution:

  • Benign ovarian cysts – 47.3%
  • Suspected endometriomas – 23.4%
  • Mature cystic teratomas – 21.5%
  • Confirmed endometriomas – 7.8%

 

A high preoperative–postoperative diagnostic concordance rate of 84.2% was observed, although 15.8% of cases were reclassified post-histology, including instances of borderline tumors, thus substantiating the indispensability of pathological confirmation.

 

Provisional Diagnosis

Frequency (n = 38)

Percentage (%)

Benign ovarian cyst

18

47.3

Suspected endometrioma

9

23.4

Dermoid cyst

8

21.5

Confirmed endometrioma

3

7.8

Table 6: Preoperative Diagnostic Impressions

 

Operative Metrics and Technical Parameters

  • Mean operative duration was 46.1 ± 9.31 minutes, with 65.8% of surgeries completed in under 46 minutes.
  • Mean estimated blood loss was 44.9 ± 8.42 mL, with 57.9% of patients experiencing blood loss >40 mL.
  • Intraoperative complications included prolonged operative time (21%), anaesthetic instability (5.3%), and excessive hemorrhage (73.7%) in select cases.

 

The correlation between cyst complexity and elevated intraoperative blood loss was highly significant (p < 0.001), demanding nuanced hemostatic vigilance and refined dissection strategies.

 

Parameter

Value

Mean Operative Time (minutes)

46.1 ± 9.31

Mean Blood Loss (mL)

44.9 ± 8.42

Conversion to Laparotomy

0

Intraoperative Complications

 

- Prolonged duration

8 (21%)

- Anesthetic instability

2 (5.3%)

- Excessive hemorrhage

28 (73.7%)

Table 7: Intraoperative Parameters

 

Surgical Modality and Conversion Rates

The predominant surgical intervention was laparoscopic cystectomy (65.8%), followed by oophorectomy (18.4%) and salpingo-oophorectomy (15.8%). Complex lesions and intraoperative suspicion of malignancy were determinants for more radical resections. No conversions to laparotomy were necessitated, reflecting high procedural expertise.

 

Procedure Type

Frequency (n = 38)

Percentage (%)

Cystectomy

25

65.8

Oophorectomy

7

18.4

Salpingo-oophorectomy

6

15.8

Table 8: Types of Laparoscopic Procedures Performed

 

Postoperative Outcomes

  • Mean hospitalization duration was 2.29 ± 1.16 days, with 71.1% of patients requiring ≥2 days of inpatient monitoring.
  • Postoperative complications were minimal: wound infections (15.8%), febrile morbidity (5.3%), and no instances of thromboembolic events or visceral injury.
  • Patients with longer operative durations and complex cyst histology experienced significantly protracted hospital stays (p < 0.001).

 

Parameter

Frequency (n = 38)

Percentage (%)

Mean Hospital Stay (days)

 

2.29 ± 1.16

Hospital Stay ≥2 days

27

71.1

Febrile morbidity

2

5.3

Wound infection

6

15.8

Table 9: Postoperative Morbidity and Hospital Stay

 

Histopathological Spectrum and Diagnostic Correlation

Final pathological analysis revealed:

  • Serous cystadenomas – 39.5%
  • Endometriomas – 36.8%
  • Mature cystic teratomas – 18.4%
  • Borderline tumors – 5.2%

 

The diagnostic concordance between intraoperative suspicion/imaging and histopathology was quantified at 84.2%, while 15.8% of lesions were histologically upgraded. A chi-square value of 23.7 (p < 0.001) confirmed statistically significant association between histology and postoperative hospitalization.

 

Histological Entity

Frequency (n = 38)

Percentage (%)

Serous cystadenoma

15

39.5

Endometrioma

14

36.8

Mature cystic teratoma

7

18.4

Borderline tumor

2

5.2

Table 10: Final Histopathological Diagnosis

 

Follow-Up and Surveillance

At follow-up:

  • 36.8% of patients were assessed at 3 months
  • 63.2% at 6 months
  • Zero incidences of recurrence or residual disease were documented during the short-term surveillance period.

 

Diagnostic Accuracy Measure

Value

Concordance (Imaging vs Histology)

32 cases

Concordance Rate (%)

84.2%

Discordance (Reclassified lesions)

6 cases

Discordance Rate (%)

15.8%

Table 11: Diagnostic Concordance

DISCUSSION

The present prospective observational study endeavors to consolidate surgical metrics, histopathological fidelity, and diagnostic precision in the laparoscopic management of benign adnexal masses. The findings not only reinforce the procedural and oncological safety of minimally invasive gynecologic surgery (MIGS) but also highlight the indispensable role of histopathological verification in circumventing misclassification of morphologically deceptive lesions. A multidimensional interpretive approach was employed to triangulate clinical, radiological, operative, and histological data, thereby elucidating critical correlations that can inform evidence-based surgical practice.

 

The mean patient age of 37.2 years and the preponderance of individuals in the third and fourth decades underscore the reproductive-age predominance of benign adnexal pathology, a trend consistently reported in the global literature [29,30]. This demographic subset necessitates heightened vigilance regarding ovarian preservation and fertility-sparing surgical strategies. The observed high rate of asymptomatic lesions (21.1%) further corroborates earlier reports that a substantial proportion of benign adnexal masses are incidental radiological findings [34,36]. Such incidentalomas, while clinically silent, harbor latent risks of torsion, rupture, or even neoplastic transformation, warranting timely intervention.

 

In alignment with prior studies [28,32], our cohort exhibited a high BMI mean of 25.4 kg/m², with a notable prevalence of overweight and obese individuals. Although obesity has traditionally been viewed as a potential barrier to laparoscopy due to technical and anesthetic challenges, our findings demonstrate that with adequate surgical expertise, this anthropometric variable does not preclude successful outcomes. Interestingly, while BMI did not significantly influence complication rates, it was associated with prolonged operative time, consistent with findings by Zhou et al. [26] and Einarsson et al. [22].

 

From a symptomatologic perspective, our cohort displayed a heterogeneity of complaints, with pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, and abdominal bloating constituting the most frequent symptomatic presentations. These findings mirror the symptom profiles delineated in the seminal works of Wakhloo et al. [31] and Mohan et al. [35], particularly in cases of endometriotic and dermoid pathology. The significant association between symptom duration and histologically confirmed endometriomas and dermoid cysts reaffirms their chronicity and often indolent evolution [37].

 

Radiologically, the study demonstrates the enduring value of transvaginal ultrasonography (TVUS) in preoperative mass characterization, with 84.2% concordance with final histopathology—a diagnostic fidelity echoed by Van Calster et al. [8] and Guerriero et al. [23]. However, the discordance rate of 15.8% underscores the inherent limitations of sonographic imaging in delineating borderline tumors or differentiating complex cysts from early neoplasms. This diagnostic gray zone substantiates the indispensability of histopathological examination as the definitive arbiter of adnexal pathology [13,21].

 

The mean CA-125 level in our cohort was 68.2 U/mL. Though classically associated with epithelial ovarian malignancies, CA-125 remains a nonspecific marker that can also be elevated in benign conditions such as endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and even fibroids [23]. The statistically significant correlation between elevated CA-125 and histologically confirmed endometriomas in our study mirrors the diagnostic nuances highlighted by Guerriero et al. [23] and Sharma et al. [15], necessitating cautious interpretation of biomarker data in isolation.

 

Surgically, the mean operative duration of 46.1 minutes and mean blood loss of 44.9 mL attest to the procedural efficiency of laparoscopic techniques, a conclusion supported by the meta-analytical synthesis by Kurban et al. [10] and the operative benchmarking data of Cheng et al. [11]. Our findings affirm that laparoscopic excision, when executed by trained hands, significantly minimizes perioperative morbidity, a claim further substantiated by the low intraoperative complication rate observed in our series. Notably, the absence of visceral injuries and the minimal incidence of anesthesia-related events reiterate the procedural safety of the laparoscopic approach [34].

 

The predominance of laparoscopic cystectomy (65.8%) as the surgical technique of choice in this study aligns with international practice patterns in benign adnexal mass management, particularly in younger cohorts where fertility preservation is paramount [4,32]. More extensive procedures, such as oophorectomy and salpingo-oophorectomy, were judiciously reserved for complex or suspicious lesions—a surgical strategy consistent with the recommendations of ACOG [3] and echoed by Nezhat et al. [3].

 

Histologically, the distribution of benign neoplasms—serous cystadenoma (39.5%), endometrioma (36.8%), and mature cystic teratoma (18.4%)—parallels the epidemiological patterns described in the retrospective analyses of Goyal et al. [6], Brown et al. [21], and Shibata et al. [25]. The identification of borderline tumors in 5.2% of cases reiterates the diagnostic fallibility of intraoperative inspection alone, thereby justifying the routine use of histopathological examination—even in masses presumed benign based on imaging and gross morphology [5,14,20].

 

The strong statistical association between complex cyst histology, prolonged operative time, increased intraoperative hemorrhage, and longer hospitalization resonates with previous data from Muzii et al. [16], Liu et al. [24], and Talwar et al. [30]. These findings collectively underscore the need for individualized surgical planning, meticulous operative technique, and anticipatory perioperative management in patients harboring complex adnexal masses.

 

Postoperatively, our data revealed a favorable convalescence profile, with most patients discharged within two to three days, minimal infectious morbidity, and no documented instances of thromboembolic complications. These outcomes reflect the optimized recovery parameters consistently associated with laparoscopy as reported in large-scale comparative studies [19,24,27].

 

Our follow-up data further demonstrate the absence of recurrence or delayed complications in the surveillance window, lending credence to the long-term safety and oncological adequacy of laparoscopic excision in well-selected benign adnexal masses [28,33].

 

Notably, this study contributes novel insight into the clinicopathological convergence of adnexal mass management, demonstrating that preoperative imaging and intraoperative observations, when corroborated by definitive histopathology, can yield an integrated framework for surgical decision-making. Furthermore, the statistically robust correlation between preoperative diagnostic impression, intraoperative findings, and hospital stay duration (p < 0.001 across all metrics) reveals latent predictive dimensions that warrant further validation in larger, multi-centric cohorts.

 

Beyond conventional histopathological interpretation, the nuanced characterization of benign adnexal masses necessitates an integrated diagnostic approach that fuses classical morphology with advanced molecular and immunophenotypic methodologies. While entities such as serous and mucinous cystadenomas, endometriomas, and mature cystic teratomas have traditionally been considered diagnostically straightforward based on gross and microscopic features, mounting evidence reveals that subtle architectural or cytological aberrations may portend a latent neoplastic trajectory—especially in histotypes with ambiguous epithelial stratification or stromal proliferation. In this regard, immunohistochemistry (IHC) has emerged as a critical ancillary tool for delineating lineage-specific markers and unmasking occult proliferative potential. For instance, the expression of WT1, PAX8, and calretinin aids in affirming Müllerian derivation in serous neoplasms, whereas CK7/CK20, CEA, and CDX2 immunoreactivity patterns help differentiate primary ovarian mucinous tumors from metastatic gastrointestinal counterparts. Similarly, CD10 and ER/PR positivity within ectopic endometrial stroma solidify the diagnosis of endometrioma while distinguishing it from hemorrhagic cysts or neoplastic endometrioid lesions. In the context of mature teratomas, although the diagnosis is often unequivocal due to the presence of differentiated ectodermal structures, IHC may be invaluable when immature elements or malignant transformation is suspected—such as S100, GFAP, or synaptophysin staining for neuroectodermal foci.

 

Expanding upon this immunophenotypic scaffold, next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies have revolutionized the genomic interrogation of ovarian masses, allowing for high-throughput, multi-gene analysis that can uncover occult pathogenic variants even within histologically benign-appearing lesions. In recent studies, benign serous and mucinous cystadenomas have demonstrated somatic mutations in genes such as KRAS, BRAF, and ARID1A, implicating these lesions in the broader neoplastic continuum and challenging the strict dichotomy between benign and malignant pathology. Endometriotic cysts, once considered inert, have also been shown to harbor PIK3CA and PTEN mutations, suggesting a molecular predisposition to malignant transformation in a subset of patients—a finding that reinforces the clinical imperative of complete excision and vigilant surveillance. Moreover, the application of targeted NGS panels in adnexal pathology facilitates differentiation between borderline tumors and atypical benign lesions, enabling a more refined prognostication and informing the potential need for further surgical staging or oncologic consultation. As such, the confluence of traditional histopathology with IHC and molecular diagnostics engenders a multidimensional understanding of benign adnexal masses, one that transcends morphological taxonomy and embraces the evolving genomic landscape of gynecologic neoplasia.

 

Despite its strengths, this study is circumscribed by certain inherent limitations. First, the single-center design limits external validity, especially in resource-constrained or community-level settings. Second, the modest sample size restricts the statistical power for detecting subtle intergroup differences or rare histological variants. Third, the short follow-up duration precludes a robust assessment of long-term outcomes, including recurrence rates, fertility implications, and adhesion-related sequelae. Additionally, the lack of intraoperative frozen section analysis in suspected borderline lesions may have constrained immediate intraoperative decision-making.

 

In summation, the findings from this prospective observational study decisively affirm the clinical, procedural, and diagnostic utility of laparoscopic management for benign adnexal masses. The high diagnostic concordance with histopathology, minimal complication rates, and accelerated postoperative recovery collectively advocate for the widespread adoption of laparoscopy as a surgical standard. However, the non-trivial incidence of diagnostic discordance and the detection of borderline tumors underscore the imperative of routine histopathological assessment to preclude inadvertent undertreatment. Future multicenter, longitudinal studies integrating economic analysis, fertility outcomes, and quality-of-life measures are warranted to further refine the paradigms governing adnexal mass surgery in the modern gynecological landscape.

CONCLUSION

In summation, this prospective observational study provides compelling empirical evidence affirming the clinical robustness, procedural safety, and diagnostic precision of laparoscopic surgery in the management of benign adnexal masses. The operative metrics—characterized by reduced intraoperative morbidity, abbreviated hospitalization, and minimal complication rates—consolidate the position of minimally invasive surgery as the gold standard in contemporary gynecologic practice. The high concordance observed between preoperative imaging assessments and histopathological diagnoses underscores the utility of radiological modalities in surgical planning, yet simultaneously reaffirms the non-negotiable necessity of histopathological examination as the definitive diagnostic arbiter—particularly in an era where borderline and morphologically deceptive lesions continue to challenge gross intraoperative discernment.

 

Furthermore, the histopathological spectrum encountered—ranging from serous cystadenomas to mature cystic teratomas and endometriomas—reiterates the morphological diversity and clinical unpredictability inherent to adnexal masses. As illuminated by the emerging molecular and immunohistochemical evidence, even ostensibly benign lesions may harbor genetic and proliferative anomalies, thus demanding a paradigm shift from purely morphological to integrative diagnostic frameworks. Laparoscopic excision, when undertaken with meticulous surgical technique, appropriate patient selection, and adjunctive pathological oversight, offers a safe, efficacious, and fertility-conserving solution—particularly critical in younger women.

 

In light of the study's findings, it may be posited that the optimal management of benign adnexal masses lies at the intersection of minimally invasive surgical expertise, nuanced radiological interpretation, and vigilant histomolecular scrutiny. Future investigations should endeavor to incorporate long-term follow-up, fertility outcomes, recurrence rates, and molecular profiling to refine risk stratification and optimize individualized patient care. Until then, histologically confirmed laparoscopy remains the procedural cornerstone in the armamentarium of modern gynecologic surgery.

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