Abstract
Ovarian cancer, a leading cause of gynecological cancer mortality, often affects women
of reproductive age. Fertility-sparing surgery (FSS) has emerged as a viable option
for selected patients with early-stage ovarian cancer who wish to preserve fertility.
Patient and tumor selection criteria focus on preserving ovarian function and reproductive
potential without compromising oncological safety. Optimal candidates are young, premenopausal
women with disease confined to one ovary and favorable prognostic factors such as
early FIGO stage, specific histologic subtypes, and good overall health. FSS typically
involves unilateral salpingo-oophorectomy while preserving the uterus and contralateral
ovary, achieving survival outcomes comparable to radical surgery in early-stage low-grade
tumors. However, its application in higher-risk cases requires cautious evaluation.
Multidisciplinary management, involving gynecologic oncologists and reproductive specialists,
is essential for successful implementation of FSS, ensuring both oncological safety
and preservation of reproductive potential. Long-term follow-up is critical to monitor
recurrence and assess reproductive outcomes. Pregnancy after FSS is feasible, with
timing guided by cancer type, stage, and individual circumstances. This review summarizes
the current knowledge on FSS in ovarian cancer, emphasizing its relevance and the
need for further research to refine patient selection and ensure optimal outcomes.
Keywords
ovarian cancer - fertility preservation - surgical treatment - fertility-sparing surgery
- survival
