Needle oophoropexy: a new simple technique for ovarian transposition prior to pelvic irradiation.

BACKGROUND

Irradiation of the pelvis in the treatment of cancers will result in ovarian failure unless the ovaries are shielded adequately. To protect the ovaries, an oophoropexy may be performed. Our aim was to evaluate the feasibility, morbidity, and efficacy of laparoscopic ovarian transposition using a simple percutaneous needle technique.

METHODS

Fifteen patients (ten with rectal cancer and five with Hodgkin's disease) underwent the new laparoscopic oophoropexy technique. Laparoscopic releasing of the ovary was performed by cutting the utero-ovarian ligament followed by placing the ovaries on the anterior abdominal wall. A percutaneous straight needle was introduced through a 2-mm skin incision at the site of fixation. Repositioning of the ovaries was done on an outpatient basis without the need for readmission to the operating theatre.

RESULTS

The technique was effective, reliable, and simple with no morbidities. Repositioning was performed simply in the outpatient clinic. At follow-up, 11 patients had evidence of ovarian function.

CONCLUSION

Percutaneous needle transposition of the ovaries is a simple, effective, reliable, and easy-to-perform technique. It has short learning curve and can be done by less experienced laparoscopic surgeons.