Ovarian torsion

A twisting of the ovary and/or fallopian tube on its vascular and ligamentous supports, blocking adequate blood flow to the ovary.

Rapid diagnosis and intervention are necessary to preserve ovarian function.

Most often seen in women of reproductive age between 20 and 40 years; can occur during pregnancy. Also seen in infants, children, adolescents, and post-menopausal women.

Commonly presents with abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and an abdominal mass. High clinical suspicion is necessary. Clinical presentation is non-specific, with no absolute clinical profile.

Transvaginal ultrasound with Doppler flow studies may show an enlarged ovary with absence of blood flow.

Definitive diagnosis is surgical. Laparoscopic surgery with detorsion is the preferred treatment to preserve normal ovarian function and fertility.

The twisting, or torsion, of the ovary around its ligamentous supports. This may result in loss of blood supply to both the ovary and the fallopian tube. When diagnosed, this condition is considered a surgical emergency. Therefore, reaching a correct diagnosis as quickly as possible is critical in order to prevent adverse events that may result in the loss of the ovary, fallopian tube, or both.