GYNAECOLOGY · CONDITION GUIDE
Ovarian Torsion
A gynaecological emergency in which the ovary — and often the fallopian tube — twists around its supporting ligaments, cutting off its blood supply and requiring urgent surgical intervention to prevent irreversible damage.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Ovarian Torsion?
Ovarian torsion occurs when the ovary twists on the infundibulopelvic ligament and ovarian ligament, compromising the blood supply to the ovary and frequently the fallopian tube. It is a surgical emergency that must be treated promptly to preserve ovarian function. Torsion is more common when an ovarian cyst or mass increases the weight of the ovary. The classic presentation is sudden, severe, one-sided pelvic pain, often with nausea and vomiting. Dr. Ashwani Narla provides emergency laparoscopic management of ovarian torsion at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
-
Ovarian cyst or mass increasing ovarian weight and predisposing to twisting
-
Long infundibulopelvic or utero-ovarian ligaments allowing excessive ovarian mobility
-
Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) following fertility treatment
-
Prior pelvic surgery altering normal anatomy and ligament tension
-
Pregnancy-related corpus luteum cysts increasing torsion risk in early pregnancy
-
Paradoxically, normal ovaries in children and adolescents can torse without a cyst
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Surgical emergency — time-critical to preserve ovarian blood supply
Emergency laparoscopy, detorsion, cystectomy, oophoropexy, or salpingo-oophorectomy
Detorsion and untwisting can often save the ovary even if it appears discoloured
Doppler ultrasound assesses blood flow; diagnosis often confirmed at laparoscopy
Laparoscopic approach allows rapid recovery within 1–2 weeks
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hitech City, Hyderabad
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Emergency Laparoscopy
Urgent minimally invasive surgery to diagnose and treat ovarian torsion — the primary and most critical step in management.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Ashwani Narla evaluates acute pelvic pain urgently. Doppler ultrasound assesses ovarian blood flow. A high index of suspicion leads to prompt surgical planning.
- 2
Treatment Planning
Emergency laparoscopy is planned immediately. The approach — detorsion, cystectomy, or oophorectomy — is decided based on intraoperative ovarian viability.
- 3
Surgical Procedure
Emergency laparoscopy is performed to untwist the ovary (detorsion). Cystectomy, salpingo-oophorectomy, or oophoropexy is added based on findings.
- 4
Follow-up
Oophoropexy is considered for recurrent torsion risk. Follow-up ultrasound confirms ovarian recovery.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
TreatmentOptions
Emergency Laparoscopy
Urgent minimally invasive surgery to diagnose and treat ovarian torsion — the primary and most critical step in management.
Detorsion (Ovarian Untwisting)
Laparoscopic untwisting of the torsed ovary to restore blood flow — ovarian tissue often recovers even when initially appearing compromised.
Ovarian Cystectomy (If Cyst Present)
Removal of the cyst that precipitated torsion during the same laparoscopy, after detorsion and restoration of blood supply.
Salpingo-oophorectomy (If Non-Viable / Suspicious)
Removal of the ovary and tube when the ovary is non-viable after detorsion or when malignancy cannot be excluded.
Oophoropexy
Surgical fixation of the ovary to prevent recurrence — performed in selected cases with a history of recurrent torsion or high risk anatomy.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
Not sure about your condition?
Compassionate, confidential consultations — Book your appointment today.