Management of pediatric ovarian torsion: evidence of follicular development after ovarian preservation

Purpose

This study reviews contemporary management and follow-up of pediatric ovarian torsion.

Methods

This is a retrospective series of patients from birth to 19 years undergoing operative management of ovarian torsion from 2012 to 2016.

Results

We studied 43 girls who underwent 51 operations for ovarian torsion. The median age was 8.3 years. Ultrasound was utilized for diagnosis in 24/29 patients (83%) evaluated in a children's hospital. In contrast, computed tomography was used initially in 7 cases (50%) in children imaged at non–children's hospitals before transfer. Initial operation for ovarian torsion was completed laparoscopically in 38 (88%). Overall, ovarian preservation was performed in 37 (86%) patients, while 6 (13%) underwent oophorectomy. Indications for oophorectomy included 5 infants with in utero torsion and an 18-year-old with a suspected malignancy. In girls with acute ovarian torsion, the oophorectomy rate was reduced to 2%. Postoperatively, 1 patient developed a small bowel obstruction requiring operation after laparoscopic ovarian detorsion. Recurrent torsion occurred in 3 patients (7%). In total, 34 patients underwent postoperative ovarian imaging. A total of 25 (74%) had follicles visualized in the previously torsed ovary.

Conclusion

Ovarian-sparing operations for acute torsion are safe and result in ovarian salvage and preservation of follicular development in more than 70% of children and adolescents.