Ovarian torsion is a serious issue that causes the ovary to twist around the tissue that holds it in place. This twisting can cut off blood supply to the ovary and fallopian tube which can possibly damage the ovary for good. This condition comes with symptoms that are sudden and intense, usually in the abdominal area. It also causes nausea, vomiting and sometimes a fever. Ovarian torsion is typically caused by pressure exerted on the ovary by an ovarian cyst or tumor.
However, in this article, we’ll look into different risk factors and situations of ovarian torsion. We’ll also talk about how doctors diagnose ovarian torsion, so it gets treated quickly and correctly. Lastly, we’ll cover the different treatment options available for ovarian torsion.
Risk Factors of Ovarian Torsion
While this is a rare condition, there are some factors that can make ovarian torsion more likely for you to develop. These factors include:
Ovarian Cysts: If your ovaries have big cysts on them, which happens in conditions like ovarian cyst or polycystic ovary syndrome, the ovaries can become heavier, which makes it easier for them to twist.
Pregnancy: When you’re pregnant, your body goes through a lot of hormonal changes, and your ovaries can shift position.
Pelvic Masses: If you have any abnormal growths or masses in your pelvic area, it can push on your ovaries. This pressure exerted by this growth makes the ovaries more likely to twist.
Age: Women between 20 to 40 are more likely to experience ovarian torsion, this is because this is the age when the ovaries are really active. However, ovarian torsion can happen at any age, even in kids and older women.
Lastly, some people are just born with a longer ligament than others. This ligament is what holds the ovary in place. When this ligament is longer, it increases the likelihood of twisting.
Diagnosis of Ovarian Torsion
When you go to the hospital to make a complaint about the symptoms you’re experiencing in your abdominal area, the first thing the doctor would do is a pelvic exam to check for any abnormal signs.
After that, they’d perform an ultrasound which is a test that uses sound waves to create images of the ovaries and other internal organs. The ultrasound will be able to detect if the ovary is swollen or twisted.
In a case where the ultrasound isn’t clear enough, doctors might use a CT scan. This scan will provide a more detailed image of what’s happening inside your body, which will allow them to make a proper diagnosis.
Treatment of Ovarian Torsion
Once the ovarian torsion has been detected and diagnosed an emergency surgery will be conducted; that’s the main treatment. The goal of this surgery is to untwist the ovary and restore blood flow.
This surgery is to be done quickly in order to prevent serious issues like the death of the ovary tissues, which can lead to the removal of the ovary or damage to the fallopian tubes. With a removed ovary and damaged fallopian tubes, getting pregnant becomes an issue.
Conclusion
The bottom line is that ovarian torsion is serious and needs quick medical attention. Even though it’s rare, some factors like ovarian cysts, pregnancy, pelvic masses, and age make some people more likely to get it. When you go to the hospital, doctors will do a few tests to figure out what’s going on. If they confirm you have ovarian torsion, you’ll need surgery right away to untwist the ovary.
