Ovarian torsion is a rare but serious cause of acute abdomen in women. Delay in diagnosis may result in severe consequences.
If an ovary undergoes torsion, blood flow to this ovary is disturbed. It usually occurs in ovaries enlarged due to the presence of a cyst. It is almost always unilateral and mostly on the right side.
If an ovary undergoes torsion, blood flow to this ovary is disturbed. It usually occurs in ovaries enlarged due to the presence of a cyst. It is almost always unilateral and mostly on the right side.
Enlarged and mobile ovaries are risk factors. Most common reason is the presence of a dermoid cyst. These cysts cause highly mobile and enlarged ovaries. Hyperstimulation of the ovaries during IVF is another cause for ovarian torsion.
Ovarian torsion typically presents with sudden onset of abdominal pain. This pain results from ischemia of the ovary due to decreased blood flow.
Diagnosis is usually based on clinical symptoms. Differential diagnosis includes appendicitis, ectopic pregnancy and many other conditions. Ultrasonography reveals an unusually enlarged ovary. Doppler examination reveals decreased blood flow to the ovary. Exact diagnosis requires laparoscopy.
Treatment is surgical. Detorsion of the ovary is performed laparoscopically. If diagnosis is not delayed and treatment is performed immediately, no sequela occurs. If the condition is not diagnosed and managed appropriately, irreversible necrosis is the result. This necessitates removal of the ovary surgically.
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