Late endocrine effects of ovarian electrocautery in women with polycystic ovary syndrome.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the duration of the changes in endocrine indices produced by ovarian electrocautery in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

DESIGN

Long-term observational study.

SETTING

University hospital.

PATIENT(S): Infertile women with PCOS.

INTERVENTION(S): Ovarian electrocautery was performed through the laparoscope. Blood was sampled before the operation and at defined intervals thereafter. After the establishment of regular cycles, sampling was performed 1 week before the menstrual period.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): The patients were observed before and at defined intervals for up to 20 years after ovarian electrocautery. Serum concentrations of hypophyseal and ovarian hormones were determined, including sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG).

RESULT(S): There was a clear shift from anovulation to ovulatory cycles and a significant decrease in androgens and gonadotropins. The concentration of SHBG increased. These effects lasted for many years; after 18-20 years, two thirds of the women were still ovulating.

CONCLUSION(S): Ovarian electrocautery for PCOS normalizes ovarian function, including androgen production, and the results seem to be stable for 18-20 years.