Laparoscopic lateral ovarian transposition.

OBJECTIVE

To determine if the new technique laparoscopic lateral transposition of the ovaries before pelvic radiotherapy for anal canal carcinoma prevents radiation-related ovarian failure.

DESIGN

A case report.

SETTING

The operating room of a Canadian teaching hospital.

PATIENTS: A single patient with anal canal carcinoma, requiring pelvic radiotherapy, who desired preservation of ovarian function.

INTERVENTIONS: Laparoscopic ovarian transposition to the level of the pelvic brim.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Follow-up clinical and laboratory evidence of ovarian failure.

RESULTS

Initially ovarian failure was confirmed with the appearance of postmenopausal symptoms and the elevation of serum gonadotropins. These symptoms resolved by 8 months after radiotherapy, normal menstrual cycles resumed, and normal FSH levels were detected at that time.

CONCLUSIONS

The laparoscopic, lateral transposition of this patient's ovaries was effective at preventing radiation-related ovarian failure.