A case of ovarian torsion is a very serious one. It is important to be under regular gynecological control in a quality clinic so that you know where to seek help when you need it. Be sure that the OBGYN clinic you have chosen is able to cope with this pathology and the doctor is experienced and skillful.

Ovarian torsion (adnexal torsion) occurs when an ovary twists around the tissues that support it. Sometimes, the fallopian tube may also become twisted. This painful condition cuts off blood supply to those organs. Ovarian torsion is a medical emergency. If not treated quickly, it can result in loss of an ovary. It s unclear how often ovarian torsion occurs, but doctors agree that it s an uncommon diagnosis. Such a diagnosis for children can be explained by heredity and congenital pathologies. For women, risk factors can include ovarian cyst, with size greater than 4-6 cm or with solid components, history of prior torsion, pregnancy, and history of pelvic surgery.

What are the symptoms?

Ovarian torsion can cause:

• severe, sudden pain in the lower abdomen
• cramping
• nausea
• vomiting

These symptoms usually appears suddenly and without warning. In some cases, pain, cramping, and tenderness in the lower abdomen may come and go for several weeks. This can occur if the ovary is attempting to twist back into the correct position. If you are experiencing nausea or vomiting without pain, you have a different underlying condition. Either way, you should see your doctor for diagnosis.

Treatment in case of Ovarian torsion

Surgery is the only way out. It will be done to untwist your ovary and if necessary, your fallopian tube. After surgery, your doctor may prescribe medication to reduce your risk of recurrence. Occasionally it may be necessary to remove the affected ovary.

Your doctor can use one of two surgical procedures to untwist your ovary:

Laparoscopy -- Your doctor will insert a slender, lighted instrument into a small incision in your lower abdomen. This will allow viewing your internal organs. They ll make another incision to allow access to the ovary. Once the ovary is accessible, your doctor will use a blunt probe or other tools to untwist it. This procedure requires general anesthesia and is usually done on an outpatient basis. Your doctor may recommend this surgery if you are pregnant.

Laparotomy -- With this procedure, your doctor will make a larger incision in your lower abdomen to allow them to reach in and untwist the ovary manually. This is done while you are under general anesthesia, and you will be required to stay the night at the hospital.

Are complications possible?

If a lot of time has passed the prolonged loss of blood can cause the surrounding tissue to die. If this happens, your doctor will remove the ovary and any other affected tissue. The only way to avoid this complication is to seek immediate medical attention for your symptoms.