Optimising ovarian tumour management: a multicentre study of the short and long term effects of the surgical versus conservative management of ovarian masses.

The long term behaviour of benign-looking ovarian masses that do not undergo surgery is unknown. Such masses may undergo malignant transformation, rupture or torsion. Furthermore, they may undergo changes in volume and/or morphology that may or may not predict any of these behaviours. Due to lack of research efforts, there are no evidence-based guidelines on the optimal management of the majority of ovarian tumours. It is therefore not surprising that clinical practice is highly variable regarding the decision for surgery and follow-up schedule. Developing new insights into the natural history of benign looking conservatively managed ovarian masses will impact on patient management by avoiding surgery or surveillance for some and detecting cancer earlier or even preventing it for others. This international multicentre study aims to develop the optimal evidence-based algorithm for the management of all ovarian tumours. At least 3000 patients with an ovarian mass will undergo an ultrasound examination and if no operation is needed they will be followed up for at least 5 years. At each visit the investigator assesses the tumour and decides whether surgery is necessary. Survival and logistic regression analysis will be used to develop decision aids to assist clinicians in making optimal management decisions.

Keywords:Gynaecology, Diagnostics and biomarkers, Ovarian cancer, Ovarian neoplasms, Ultrasonography

Disciplines:Laboratory medicine, Palliative care and end-of-life care, Regenerative medicine, Other basic sciences, Other health sciences, Nursing, Other paramedical sciences, Other translational sciences, Other medical and health sciences