Ovarian Torsion in a Three-Year-Old Girl

Ovarian Torsion in a 23-Year-Old Female With Pelvic Pain

“…The cessation of blood flow to the ovary can lead to necrosis (McGee et al, 2003;Ochsner et al, 2008;Van Kerkhove et al, 2007). Ovarian torsion can be caused by ovarian enlargement and/or excessive movement of the ovary from masses, congenital anomalies, and infertility treatments.…”

“…Ovarian masses inclusive of cysts and tumors (i.e., benign and neoplastic) as well as overstimulation of the ovaries with infertility treatments aid in facilitation of the torsion. Torsion can occur in a normal adnexa; however, this usually occurs in young children with anatomical abnormalities such as an elongated fallopian tube or absent mesosalpinx (i.e., broad ligament surrounding the fallopian tube; Lin, Chu, & Yu, 2006;Ma et al, 2004;Ochsner et al, 2008;Schraga & Blanda, 2008;Van Kerkhove et al, 2007).…”

“…Although ovarian torsion is infrequently seen in the emergency department (ED), ovarian torsion is the fifth most common gynecologic emergency seen in the ED. Torsion accounts for approximately 3% of the gynecological emergencies leading to surgical intervention (Ochsner, Roos, Johnson, & Henderson, 2008;Shraga & Blanda, 2008;Silja & Gowri, 2008). Although it is not a usual occurrence, a delay in diagnosis and surgical intervention in patients with ovarian torsion can result in infarction and loss of the ovary.…”

“…Infants and children comprise 15% of ovarian torsion cases annually (McGee, Connolly, & Young, 2003;Ochsner et al, 2008). Furthermore, 70%-75% of patients with ovarian torsion are younger than 30 years of age (Schraga & Blanda, 2008).…”

“…These patients frequently present with nonspecific complaints, which can delay the diagnosis. Surgical intervention is the treatment of choice but if delayed can lead to necrosis and loss of the affected ovary (Ma, McCline, Tintinelli, & Kelen, 2004;McGee et al, 2003;Ochsner et al, 2008;Shrage & Blanda, 2008).…”