LAPAROSCOPIC FOLLOW-UP OF PATIENTS WITH OVARIAN CARCINOMA

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Abstract
Laparoscopy with cytology of ascitic fluid or peritoneal washings was performed on 110 occasions in 62 patients with ovarian cancer to assess response to chemotherapy. Damage to bowel occurred on 3 occasions and complete visualization of the peritoneal cavity was not possible in 14 patients. When tumor was seen and/or cytology was positive, the prognosis was poor; absence of macroscopic tumor with negative cytology did not preclude continuing disease. A group of patients was identified in whom a change of therapy based on laparoscopic findings after 6 mo. of treatment might have proven beneficial. Laparoscopy has a limited place as a 2nd-look procedure in patients undergoing treatment for ovarian carcinoma.