Omentectomy

An omentectomy is a surgical procedure designed to remove the omentum, which is a thin fold of abdominal tissue that encases the stomach, large intestine and other abdominal organs. This fatty lining contains lymph nodes, lymph vessels, nerves and blood vessels. During ovarian cancer treatment, an omentectomy may be performed along with a hysterectomy to remove the uterus, an oophorectomy to remove one or both ovaries and/or a salpingectomy to remove one or both fallopian tubes. While ovarian cancer is often treated with surgery, the optimal approach will depend on the stage and extent of the cancer, the patient’s general health and other factors.

An omentectomy may be recommended for an ovarian cancer patient if cancerous cells have invaded the omentum. The procedure may also be performed as a preventive measure to reduce the risk of cancer spreading from the ovaries to the stomach and other abdominal organs.

There are two main types of omentectomy:

• A total or supracolic omentectomy – A surgeon completely removes the omentum
• A partial omentectomy – A surgeon removes a portion of the omentum

An omentectomy is often completed during an operation to remove the primary tumor. The procedure may be performed traditionally, through a single incision in the abdomen, or laparoscopically, through several small incisions.

Following an omentectomy or another ovarian cancer surgery, chemotherapy is sometimes recommended to attempt to destroy any residual cancer cells. Usually, the chemotherapy drugs are administered intravenously (injected into a vein) or intraperitoneally (delivered via a catheter in the patient’s abdomen).

At Moffitt Cancer Center, we understand that a suspicion or diagnosis of ovarian cancer can seem overwhelming. We are committed to providing outstanding services, and all of our cancer treatment and support options are administered by a multispecialty team in a single location. Our patients benefit from the latest diagnostic and treatment techniques, state-of-the-art technology, nationally recognized research and cutting-edge clinical trials.

To discuss omentectomy and ovarian cancer treatment options with the world-class team of gynecologic cancer experts at Moffitt, please call 1-888-663-3488 or request to schedule an appointment online. Our physicians are available to consult with you without a referral.