From the Research
Marsupialization is the recommended treatment for Bartholin cysts due to its lower recurrence rate and higher patient satisfaction compared to Word catheter placement, as shown in the most recent study 1.
Treatment Options
- Marsupialization: a procedure where a small incision is made to create a permanent opening for drainage, resulting in lower recurrence rates and higher patient satisfaction 1
- Word catheter placement: a procedure where a catheter is placed for 4-6 weeks to establish a new duct, with a higher recurrence rate and lower patient satisfaction compared to marsupialization 1
Management
- Small, painless cysts can be managed with home treatments, such as warm sitz baths and over-the-counter pain relievers
- Large, painful, or infected cysts require medical intervention, such as marsupialization or Word catheter placement
- Infected cysts may require antibiotics, such as doxycycline or clindamycin
Considerations
- Recurrence rates: marsupialization has a lower recurrence rate compared to Word catheter placement 1
- Patient satisfaction: marsupialization results in higher patient satisfaction compared to Word catheter placement 1
- Operation time: Word catheter placement has a shorter operation time compared to marsupialization 1