Simultaneous bilateral ovarian torsion in the follicular phase after gonadotropin stimulation

• Published in: Fertility and sterility Vol. 86; no. 2; p. 462.e13
• Main Authors: Kang, Hey-Joo, Davis, Owen K, Rosenwaks, Zev
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 01-08-2006
• Subjects: Abdominal Pain - etiology; Adult; Emergency Medical Services; Female; Fertilization in Vitro; Follicular Phase; Gonadotropins - adverse effects; Gonadotropins - therapeutic use; Humans; Infant, Newborn; Infertility, Female - therapy; Laparoscopy; Male; Ovarian Diseases - chemically induced; Ovarian Diseases - complications; Ovarian Diseases - surgery; Ovulation Induction - adverse effects; Pregnancy; Pregnancy Outcome; Torsion Abnormality; Treatment Outcome
• ISSN: 1556-5653
• DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2005.12.063

To present and discuss the first report of follicular phase bilateral ovarian torsion following a cancelled IVF cycle.
Case report.
University-based assisted reproductive technology program.
A 41-year-old nulligravid patient on day 3 of her menses following a cancelled IVF cycle.
Gonadotropin ovulation induction; laparoscopy with detorsion of left and right ovaries; aspiration of cysts.
Ovarian torsion resolved; follicular development in the following natural cycle.
This is a unique case of simultaneous bilateral ovarian torsion following a cancelled IVF cycle and presenting in the ensuing follicular phase. Physicians should be aware of this unusual risk related to persistently enlarged ovaries in the cycle following gonadotropin stimulation. Furthermore, management of the infertility patient should be conservative and focused on ovarian preservation whenever feasible. Early surgical intervention can permit reperfusion and salvage of the affected adnexa.