Ovarian Torsion at 8 weeks of Gestation in a Woman with Threatened Abortion After Frozen-Thawed Embryo Transfer: A Case Report

Int J Womens Health. 2024 Nov 29:16:2043-2050. doi: 10.2147/IJWH.S488657. eCollection 2024.

Abstract

Introduction: Ovarian torsion during pregnancy is a rare condition that requires prompt diagnosis and repositioning to preserve ovarian function.

Case report: A 32-year-old woman underwent a successful pregnancy after FET, but was hospitalized for observation because of a threatened abortion. During the 8th week of pregnancy, a transvaginal ultrasound examination was performed due to sudden lower abdominal pain, which displayed an 8.3×5.2cm right ovary and a 4.3×3.6 cm enhanced echogenic mass over the right ovary with striated structures. Consequently, a preliminary diagnosis of ovarian torsion was made, and urgent laparoscopic exploration was conducted. Intraoperatively, the right fallopian tube and right ovary were rotated counterclockwise by 720 degrees. After rotate and reposition the right ovary and fallopian tube, a 3 cm diameter cyst was punctured. After 1 hour of observation, a 2×1×1cm segment of ovarian tissue was excised. Pregnancy was maintained with aggressive postoperative luteal support and anti-infective treatment.

Conclusion: The use of clomiphene citrate during endometrium preparation for frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycles may elevate the risk of ovarian torsion. Laparoscopic ovarian repositioning after ovarian torsion in pregnant women, even those with threatened abortion, is safe when combined with postoperative anti-infective treatment and intensive luteal support.

Keywords: frozen-thawed embryo transfer; laparoscopy; ovarian torsion; pregnancy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

Grants and funding

This study was funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (82174429, 82104914) and 2024 Shenzhen Luohu District Soft Science Research Program (LX202402023).