Ovarian Torsion
Ovarian torsion is a condition in which the ovary and/or fallopian tubes twist inside the body, cutting off blood supply to that tissue.
About Ovarian Torsion
Ovarian torsion is a rare condition in which the ovary and/or fallopian tubes become twisted. This distortion interrupts blood supply to these organs, which can cause permanent tissue damage. Torsion typically results from the presence of ovarian cysts, which add extra weight to the ovary.
Symptoms of Ovarian Torsion
The onset of ovarian torsion symptoms can be very sudden.
Symptoms of ovarian torsion may include:
- Abdominal cramping
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Sharp abdominal pain
Risk Factors for Ovarian Torsion
Certain people are at greater risk for developing ovarian torsion, and risk factors associated with the development of ovarian cysts can also lead to ovarian torsion.
Risk factors for ovarian torsion may include:
- Age: Ovarian torsion typically affects those of reproductive age.
- Health history: Pregnancy can potentially increase the risk of experiencing ovarian torsion.
Treating Ovarian Torsion
Ovarian torsion is treated surgically and can only be properly diagnosed with surgery. In some cases, your surgeon can simply un-twist the ovary and/or fallopian tubes. If torsion resulted in prolonged loss of blood supply to these organs, they may need to be removed. Your care team will work with you to determine the best course of treatment.
Care Team Approach
Patients are cared for by a dedicated multidisciplinary care team, meaning you will benefit from the expertise of multiple specialists across a variety of disciplines. Our team of board-certified obstetricians and gynecologists, fellowship-trained subspecialists, pelvic floor physical therapists, advanced practice providers, and more work together to provide unparalleled care for patients every step of the way. We also work closely with referring physicians and other partners in the community to schedule and coordinate any additional care services you may need.
We collaborate with our colleagues at the Dell Medical School and The University of Texas at Austin to utilize the latest research, diagnostic, and treatment techniques, allowing us to deliver comprehensive, compassionate care and provide a seamless experience for women from adolescence to menopause and beyond.
