Laparoscopic treatment of polycystic ovarian disease.

There has been a recent surge of interest in laparoscopic treatment of polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD) that is unresponsive to first-line ovulation-inducing agents. Laparoscopic treatment options include multiple ovarian punch biopsy, ovarian electrocauterization and laser vaporization or photo-coagulation. These procedures are relatively easy to perform, devoid of major complications, and yield satisfactory ovulation and conception rates. Adhesion formation, however, is a potential complication following such procedures. Furthermore, women subjected to laparoscopic destructive ovarian procedures also need to be critically assessed regarding other long-term risks, such as premature ovarian failure. Laparoscopic treatment of PCOD, at present, should be viewed as experimental awaiting further trials assessing its long-term safety.