Marsupialisation of a vaginal cyst

TL;DR

Marsupialisation is a surgical procedure aimed at treating cysts by creating a slit and sewing the edges to allow for free drainage, preventing regrowth and blockages. This technique is particularly effective for various types of cysts, including Bartholin’s cysts, ensuring that the risk of recurrence is minimized. Proper diagnosis is essential to avoid increased risks associated with certain tumours.

Marsupialisation is a surgical technique whereby a slit is cut into an cyst (or abscess), and the edges are sewn onto other skin, so the cyst is spread open. This way, the cyst can drain freely, and doesn’t regrow or cause blockages or growths.

If a cyst or abscess is at risk of regrowing, removing the whole structure is not going to get the best results for the patient, or a once-off draining would not be effective, marsupialisation may be recommended.

The types of cysts that this technique is most often used on are pancreatic cysts, pilonidal cysts and Bartholin’s cysts. It can also be used on Gartner’s duct cysts.

If this technique is performed on a dermoid cysts (a teratoma) or another type of tumour, the risk of recurrence and cancer is much increased, so proper diagnosis is critical.

Marsupialisation of a Bartholin duct cyst



Jessica Lloyd - Vulvovaginal Specialist Naturopathic Practitioner, BHSc(N)

Jessica is a degree-qualified naturopath (BHSc) specialising in vulvovaginal health and disease, based in Melbourne, Australia.

Jessica is the owner and lead naturopath of My Vagina, and is a member of the:

  • International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease (ISSVD)
  • International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health (ISSWSH)
  • National Vulvodynia Association (NVA) Australia
  • New Zealand Vulvovaginal Society (ANZVS)
  • Australian Traditional Medicine Society (ATMS)
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