How big a cyst needs surgery?

Generally speaking, surgical treatment should be considered when the cyst is larger than 5 cm or causes obvious discomfort, functional impairment, malignant tendency, etc. However, the specific timing of surgery needs to be determined by the doctor based on the type and location of the cyst and the patient's physical condition.

Cysts are cystic masses in the body that can form in multiple organs or tissues, most commonly in the ovaries, liver, kidneys and other parts of the body. Most cysts are benign, and cysts smaller than 5 cm and asymptomatic usually do not require surgery, only regular observation. However, the enlargement of the cyst may cause compression of surrounding tissues, organ deformation and even dysfunction. For example, ovarian cysts may cause menstrual abnormalities or pain, kidney cysts may compress the urinary system, and liver cysts may cause liver function burden. Some cysts may also become malignant, such as teratomas in the ovaries or malignant tendencies of liver cysts. Doctors will use imaging examinations (such as B-ultrasound, CT, MRI) combined with blood tests (such as tumor marker screening) to clarify the nature and risks of the cyst and help develop a treatment plan. If the cyst ruptures, becomes infected, twists or causes acute symptoms, emergency surgery is required.

Treatments for cysts that require surgery usually include three types of surgical approaches. Laparoscopic surgery is suitable for most medium-sized benign cysts, with less trauma and quick recovery; open surgery is suitable for suspected malignant or giant cysts, facilitating complete resection and pathological analysis; minimally invasive puncture and drainage is suitable for elderly patients or patients with multiple comorbidities who cannot be treated surgically. Postoperative care is equally important. A light diet can promote digestion, appropriate exercise can reduce gastrointestinal burden, and regular check-ups should be performed according to the doctor's orders. If the cyst is small and asymptomatic, its development can be controlled through dietary conditioning and lifestyle improvements, including avoiding high-fat and high-sugar diets, regular exercise, and maintaining a good work and rest schedule.

Regardless of the size of the cyst, do not ignore the signals your body sends. If the cyst is accompanied by severe pain, bleeding, or other symptoms, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Regular physical examinations are an effective way to detect cysts. Early examination and early treatment can not only reduce the burden on the body, but also protect the quality of life.