What is a mesenteric cyst?
A mesenteric cyst is a rare benign cystic lesion located in the mesentery of the small or large intestine.
Most cysts grow slowly but over time may cause:
- abdominal pain
- a feeling of pressure or discomfort
- abdominal enlargement
- bowel obstruction
- bleeding
- infection
- torsion or rupture of the cyst
The main treatment is complete surgical removal.
Our approach
At MSI, mesenteric cysts are treated in line with modern principles of minimally invasive abdominal surgery.
Before surgery, a comprehensive examination is carried out, which may include:
- ultrasound
- computed tomography
- magnetic resonance imaging, when indicated
- laboratory tests
When technically feasible, we aim to remove mesenteric cysts laparoscopically.
If the cyst is large, closely related to the major mesenteric vessels, or malignancy is suspected, open surgery may be recommended.
In rare cases, when the cyst is firmly attached to the bowel wall, a segmental bowel resection is performed at the same time.
Postoperative treatment follows the principles of *ERAS (Enhanced Recovery After Surgery)*.
When is surgery needed?
Surgery is performed for:
- symptomatic mesenteric cysts
- growth of the cyst
- pain
- compression of the bowel
- bowel obstruction
- a suspected tumor
- infection of or bleeding into the cyst
Indications for surgery
Surgery is recommended for:
- clinical symptoms
- a large cyst
- progressive growth
- a lesion of uncertain nature
- a risk of complications
How is the operation performed?
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia.
After the abdominal cavity is explored, the cyst is mobilized, preserving the mesenteric vessels and the bowel as much as possible.
The key principle is *complete removal of the cyst without rupture*, which minimizes the risk of recurrence.
If safe removal is impossible without damaging the bowel or its blood supply, the corresponding bowel segment is resected and an intestinal anastomosis is created.
The removed tissue is always sent for histopathological examination.
Advantages of laparoscopic surgery
- Minimal surgical trauma
- Less postoperative pain
- Fast recovery
- Lower risk of wound complications
- Shorter hospital stay
- Better cosmetic result
Recovery after surgery
Postoperative treatment follows *ERAS* principles.
Most patients quickly resume physical activity and eating. The length of the hospital stay depends on the complexity of the operation and whether bowel resection was necessary.
Our advantages
- Extensive experience in laparoscopic abdominal surgery
- A commitment to laparoscopic surgery
- Maximum preservation of the bowel and its blood supply
- Complex reconstructive procedures can be performed if needed
- Routine histopathological examination of all removed lesions
- Enhanced recovery program (ERAS)
Frequently Asked Questions
Not always. Small asymptomatic cysts can be monitored, but surgery is recommended if the cyst grows, symptoms appear, or there is doubt about the nature of the lesion.
Yes. In most cases, we aim to remove mesenteric cysts laparoscopically.
Yes. If the cyst is firmly attached to the bowel wall or its vessels, removing a small segment of bowel may be needed for safe, radical treatment.
This is extremely rare, but the final diagnosis can only be made after histopathological examination of the removed lesion.
After *complete removal of the cyst*, the risk of recurrence is minimal.