Critical elements in the operative management of pediatric malignant ovarian germ cell tumors.

ABSTRACT

Performance of the appropriate operation is highly important to ensure that any patient with a suspected ovarian germ cell tumor receives optimal therapy that prioritizes cure while simultaneoulsy minimizing risk of short and long-term toxicities of treatment. The following critical elements of any operative procedure performed for a suspected pediatric or adolescent ovarian germ cell tumor are reviewed 1. Complete resection of the tumor via ipsilateral oophorectomy while avoiding tumor rupture and spillage, and 2. Performance of complete intraperitoneal staging at the time of initial tumor resection.