Ovarian Torsion
Twisting of the ovary and/or fallopian tube around its vascular pedicle, causing ischemia and requiring emergency surgical intervention.
Full Definition
Ovarian torsion occurs when the ovary rotates around its vascular pedicle, compromising blood flow and causing acute pelvic pain. This surgical emergency is more common in children and adolescents due to increased ovarian mobility and the presence of ovarian masses. Clinical presentation includes sudden onset of severe pelvic pain, nausea, and vomiting. Ultrasound may show enlarged ovary with decreased blood flow, but normal Doppler does not exclude torsion. Surgical treatment involves laparoscopic detorsion and oophoropexy if the ovary is viable, or oophorectomy if necrotic. Conservative management with ovarian preservation is preferred when possible.
Usage
Usage note: Always document the viability of the ovary and whether detorsion or oophorectomy was performed.
In Context
- "Emergency laparoscopy revealed left ovarian torsion with a viable ovary after detorsion." — Emergency department operative note
- "The patient with ovarian torsion underwent successful laparoscopic oophoropexy to prevent recurrence." — Postoperative summary