Pediatric ovarian malignancy presenting as ovarian torsion: incidence and relevance

Current surgical approach: Extracranial malignant germ cell tumors

Germ cell tumors (GCT) are a complex, heterogeneous collection of tumors that may present in either gonadal or extragonadal sites. They consist of a variety of benign and malignant histologies that can occur at several locations throughout the body. An important component of treatment is surgical resection, and while the key components of resection are site specific, the universal goals of GCT resection include the complete resection of tumor without violating the tumor capsule, while preserving function of surrounding organs, minimizing morbidity, and assessing for regional spread.

Sex-based Disparities in the Management of Pediatric Gonadal Torsion

INTRODUCTION

In 2015, the U.S. News and World Report (USNWR) implemented a quality metric to expedite surgery for testicular torsion (TT), but not ovarian torsion (OT). This study examined OR timing among children with suspected TT and OT before and after this metric.

METHODS

A single-center retrospective cohort study of children (1-18yr) who underwent surgery for suspected gonadal torsion was performed. Time to OR (TTOR) from hospital presentation to surgery start was calculated. An interrupted time series analysis identified changes in TTOR for suspected TT versus OT after the 2015 USNWR quality metric.

RESULTS

Overall, 216 patients presented with TT and 120 with OT. Median TTOR for TT was 147 min (IQR:99-198) versus 462 min (IQR:308-606) for OT. Post-quality metric, children with TT experienced a 27.8 min decrease (95% CI:-51.7,-3.9, p = 0.05) in annual median TTOR. No significant decrease was observed for children with OT (p = 0.22). Children with history of a known ovarian mass (N = 62) experienced a shorter TTOR compared to those without (422 vs 499min; p = 0.04).

CONCLUSION

Implementation of a national quality metric for TT expedited surgical care for children with TT, but not children with OT. These findings highlight the need for equitable quality metrics for children presenting with suspected gonadal torsion.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

TYPE OF STUDY

Retrospective Comparative Study, Observational Cohort Study.

Rate of oophorectomy in pediatric ovarian torsion: risk factors and change over time

PURPOSE

The management of ovarian torsion in pediatric patients has evolved over time. Ovarian salvage is currently recommended given concerns for fertility preservation and the low likelihood of malignancy. Studies have shown that the incidence of oophorectomy is higher amongst pediatric surgeons in comparison to gynecologists. Using a national database, this study examined how the surgical management of ovarian torsion has evolved.

METHODS

Children with a discharge diagnosis of ovarian torsion (ICD-9 code 620.5, ICD-10 code N835X) and procedure codes for oophorectomy (CCS code 119) were identified within the KID database from 2003, 2006, 2009, 2012, 2016, and 2019. Diagnosis of ovarian pathology was based upon ICD-9 and ICD-10 codes at the time of discharge.

RESULTS

A total of 7008 patients, ages 1-20, had a discharge diagnosis of ovarian torsion. Of those patients, 2,597 (37.1%) were diagnosed with an ovarian cyst, 1560 (22.2%) were diagnosed with a benign ovarian neoplasm, and 30 (0.4%) were diagnosed with a malignant neoplasm. There was a decreased risk of oophorectomy in urban-teaching versus rural hospitals (OR: 0.64, p < 0.001). The rate of oophorectomy has decreased overtime. However, patients with benign or malignant neoplasms were more likely to undergo oophorectomy than those without a diagnosis (OR: 2.03, p < 0.001; 4.82, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The rate of oophorectomy amongst children with ovarian torsion has decreased over time. Yet, despite improvements, oophorectomy is common amongst patients with benign ovarian neoplasms and those treated at rural hospitals. Continued education is needed to optimize patient care in all clinical scenarios.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Unusual imaging findings associated with abdominal pediatric germ cell tumors

Germ cell tumors of childhood are tumors arising from germline cells in gonadal or extragonadal locations. Extragonadal germ cell tumors are characteristically located in the midline, arising intracranially or in the mediastinum, retroperitoneum, or pelvis. These tumors are generally easily diagnosed due to typical sites of origin, characteristic imaging findings, and laboratory markers. However, germ cell tumors can be associated with unusual clinical syndromes or imaging features that can perplex the radiologist. This review will illustrate atypical imaging/clinical manifestations and complications of abdominal germ cell tumors in childhood. These features include unusual primary tumors such as multifocal primaries; local complications such as ovarian torsion or ruptured dermoid; atypical presentations of metastatic disease associated with burned-out primary tumor, growing teratoma syndrome, and gliomatosis peritonei; endocrine manifestations such as precocious puberty and hyperthyroidism; and antibody mediated paraneoplastic syndrome such as anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate-receptor antibody-mediated encephalitis. This review aims to illustrate unusual imaging features associated with the primary tumor, metastatic disease, or distant complications of abdominal germ cell tumors of childhood.

Contemporary Trends in Laparoscopy and Ovarian Sparing Surgery for Ovarian Torsion in the Pediatric Population

PURPOSE

Although total oophorectomy (TO) was historically performed in cases of nonviable-appearing ovaries, considerable evidence has demonstrated equivalent outcomes after ovarian sparing surgery (OSS) as well as long-term fertility preservation benefits. This study sought to compare outcomes of OSS and TO for patients with ovarian torsion.

METHODS

Females <21 years old admitted for ovarian torsion were identified from the Nationwide Readmissions Database (2016-2018) and stratified by OSS or TO. Propensity score-matched analysis (PSMA) utilizing >50 covariates (demographics, medical comorbidities, ovarian diagnoses, etc.) was constructed between those receiving TO and OSS.

RESULTS

There were 3,161 females (median 15 [12-18] years) with ovarian torsion, and concomitant pathologies included cysts (42%), benign masses (25%), and malignant masses (<1%). Open approaches were more common (52% vs. 48% laparoscopic), and ovarian resection (OSS or TO) was performed in 87% (39% OSS and 48% TO). OSS was more commonly performed with laparoscopic detorsions (60% vs. 40% TO), while TO was more frequent in open operations (59% vs. 41% TO; both p < 0.001). No differences in overall readmissions (7% OSS vs. 8% TO) or readmissions for recurrent torsion (<1% overall) and ovarian masses (<1%) were observed (both groups <1%; p = 0.612). After PSMA, laparoscopy was still utilized less frequently with TO (39% vs. 53%; p < 0.001) despite similar rates of malignant masses.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, these data offer additional support for the current practice guidelines that give preference to OSS as the primary method of treatment for pediatric ovarian torsion in the majority of cases.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

TYPE OF STUDY

Retrospective Comparative Study.

Postoperative outcomes of ovarian preserving surgery in premenopausal women with adnexal torsion

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to determine whether ovarian-preserving surgery for adnexal torsion helps preserve ovarian function without increasing the risk of postoperative complications.

METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated 71 women who were surgically diagnosed with adnexal torsion between January 2015 and December 2019 at Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine (ovarian preservation group, 56; oophorectomy, 15). Serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels measured within 6 months before surgery were compared to levels measured 6-24 months after surgery. Surgical findings and postoperative complications were compared between the groups.

RESULTS

There was a borderline significant difference in the decrease in serum AMH levels between the oophorectomy group and ovarian preservation group before and after surgery. There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of fever, infection, or duration of admission. Discoloration of the twisted ovary was found in 27.3% and 33.3% of the patients in the ovarian preservation and oophorectomy groups, respectively. There was no difference in the decrease in serum AMH levels between patients with and those without discoloration.

CONCLUSION

Ovarian-preserving surgery may not increase postoperative complications in patients with adnexal torsion, even if a twisted mass is suspected to be necrotic. Moreover, the ovarian reserve may not be affected by torsion if the ovary is preserved. Conservative ovarian surgery can be safely performed to preserve the reproductive potential of women with adnexal torsion and cystic masses.

Underutilization of laparoscopy for ovarian surgeries in the pediatric population: A nationwide analysis

PURPOSE

Oophorectomy and ovarian detorsion are some of the most frequent operations performed in the female pediatric population. Despite the advent of laparoscopy, many surgeons continue to utilize open surgical approaches in these patients. This study sought to compare nationwide trends and postoperative outcomes in laparoscopic and open ovarian operations in the pediatric population.

METHODS

Females less than 21 years old who underwent ovarian operations (oophorectomy, detorsion, and/or drainage) from 2016 to 2017 were identified from the Nationwide Readmissions Database. Patients were stratified by surgical approach (laparoscopic or open). Hospital characteristics and outcomes were compared using standard statistical tests.

RESULTS

There were 13,202 females (age 17 [14-20] years) who underwent open (59%) or laparoscopic (41%) ovarian operations. The most common indications for surgery were ovarian mass (48%), cyst (36%), and/or torsion (19%) for which oophorectomy (88%), detorsion (26%), and drainage (13%) were performed most frequently. The open approach was utilized more frequently for oophorectomy (95% vs. 77% laparoscopic) and detorsion (33% vs. 16% laparoscopic), both p < 0.001. A greater proportion of laparoscopic procedures were performed at large (67% vs. 61% open), teaching (82% vs. 76% open) hospitals in patients with private insurance (47% vs. 42% open), all p < 0.001. Patients undergoing open procedures had significantly higher index length of stay (LOS) and rates of wound infections. Thirty-day and overall readmission rates, as well as overall readmission costs, were higher in patients who received open surgeries.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite fewer overall complications, decreased cost, fewer readmissions, and shorter LOS, laparoscopic approaches are underutilized for pediatric ovarian procedures.

TYPE OF STUDY

Retrospective Comparative.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Characteristics of ovarian necrosis in the neonatal ovarian tumor: a single-center retrospective study and review of literature

To analyze the characteristics of ovarian necrosis in the neonatal ovarian tumor, and review treatments for ovarian torsion in neonates. Neonates with ovarian tumors undergoing surgery in Fujian Maternal and Child Health Hospital (Fujian Children's Hospital) from February 2016 to August 2021 were analyzed retrospectively. Patients were divided into the ovarian necrosis group and control group (without necrosis). Demographic characteristics, prenatal and postnatal examination, operation, and pathological findings were compared and the relevant factors of ovarian necrosis were discussed. 26 neonates were included, 12 in necrosis group and 14 in control group. The maximum diameter of the tumor in necrosis group was smaller than that in control group (P < 0.01). The preoperative CRP in necrosis group was significantly higher than that in control group (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences between two groups in the timeliness of surgery, pathological types, and length of postoperative hospital stay. About 26% of neonatal ovarian torsion could be rescued. Neonatal ovarian necrosis is characterized by a smaller tumor size and a higher preoperative CRP level. Timely surgery after birth might not change the ovarian outcome, but ovarian detorsion could be attempted in neonates to save residual ovarian function.

Ovarian Torsion and Its Remediation in a Three-Year-Old Girl

Ovarian torsion is a rare, emergent occurrence seen in the premenarchal population. If detected promptly, ovarian torsion can be treated via detorsion. We present a case of a three-year-old girl whose ovary spontaneously torsed and was corrected via ovarian detorsion. The patient presented with sudden-onset abdominal pain and emesis; a transabdominal ultrasound with Doppler was performed, which led to the diagnosis of ovarian torsion. The patient was directly taken into surgery for correction, after which she quickly recovered and was subsequently discharged. The choice of ovarian detorsion to protect fertility in pediatric patients is supported by this case and by the related literature. The key to safeguarding fertility in these patients lies in rapid detection, which remains a challenge in the pediatric population. By raising widespread awareness of the use of Doppler ultrasound as well as symptom presentation, the protection of fertility in cases of pediatric ovarian torsion can be improved.

Long-term surgical outcomes in pediatric ovarian neoplasms: 20-year single-center experience

PURPOSE

The management of pediatric ovarian neoplasms (ON) is based on finding a balance between adequate surgical treatment and future reproductive capacity. We aimed to evaluate long-term results of patients who underwent surgery for ON.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study design was used. Medical records of patients with ON were reviewed. They were invited to participate in a telephone-based survey assessing complaints, menstrual status, and post-surgical recurrence.

RESULTS

Eighty-five patients were operated for ON between 1995 and 2015. Median age at surgery was 14.7 years. 62.4% of patients had ovary-sparing surgery (OSS). Median tumor size in oophorectomy group was significantly larger than OSS group (p = 0.029). Median length of follow-up was 5.1 years. Recurrent/metachronous disease was not significantly different between OSS and oophorectomy groups (p = 1.000). In OSS group, irregular menses (p = 0.004) and painful menses (p = 0.002) were significantly higher than oophorectomy group.

CONCLUSION

The main goal of treatment in pediatric ON is to find the right balance between adequate and appropriate tumor resection and maximal effort for fertility preservation. Our results showed no difference between oophorectomy and OSS in the terms of recurrence. Although irregular and painful menses were found to be significantly higher in the OSS group, longer follow-up and prospective studies are needed to clarify this issue.

Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecologic Emergencies

Diagnosis of gynecologic emergencies in the pediatric and adolescent population requires a high index of suspicion to avoid delayed or incorrect diagnoses. This article aims to dispel common misunderstandings and aid with diagnosis and management of 3 common pediatric and adolescent gynecologic emergencies: adnexal torsion, vulvovaginal lacerations, and nonsexually acquired genital ulcers.

Adnexal Torsion Due to Borderline Mucinous Tumor of the Gonad in a Prepubertal Girl with Mixed Gonadal Dysgenesis (45,X/46,XY) and a Turner Phenotype

BACKGROUND

Turner syndrome (TS) is a sex chromosome condition characterized by complete or partial loss of the X chromosome. Patients with mixed gonadal dysgenesis (45,X/46,XY) and a Turner phenotype are predisposed to gonadoblastoma with malignant transformation.

CASE

We present the case of a TS patient with 45,X/46,XY with 2 episodes of left adnexal torsion (AT). Biopsies during detorsion showed benign mucinous cystadenoma. Pathology following bilateral gonadectomy revealed a left gonad with mucinous borderline tumor and right gonad with gonadoblastoma, both of which have malignant potential.

SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION

Gonadectomy is recommended in XY gonadal dysgenesis to decrease risk of malignant transformation from gonadoblastoma. Although rare in pediatric patients, ovarian malignancies have been identified among AT cases. To our knowledge, we present the first case of AT due to borderline ovarian mucinous tumor of the ovary and contralateral gonadoblastoma in a patient with mixed gonadal dysgenesis (45,X/46,XY) and a Turner phenotype.

Ovarian torsion: diagnosis, surgery, and fertility preservation in the pediatric population

Ovarian torsion is rare in the pediatric population. Delayed diagnosis can significantly impact fertility. The aim of this review is to highlight current knowledge regarding clinical presentation, diagnosis, surgical management, and follow-up in the pediatric population. Whilst the presentation is often very unspecific, most children will present with sudden severe unilateral pelvic pain associated with vomiting. A key diagnostic test is pelvic ultrasonography, which may help demonstrate an asymmetric enlarged ovary with peripherally displaced follicles. In the pediatric population, ovarian torsion may occur in a normal ovary. However, underlying lesions can be found in half of cases. Benign neoplasms (teratomas or cystic lesions) represent the commonest etiology, with the risk of malignancy being less than 2%. Surgical management should be focused on fertility preservation. This is achievable through ovarian detorsion ± ovarian cystectomy ± oophoropexy to avoid recurrence. Follow-up studies demonstrate excellent recovery rates of detorsed ovaries including those with ischemic appearances. What is Known: • Ovarian torsion is a rare diagnosis in the pediatric population. • Aspecific symptoms and differential diagnoses lead to missed or delayed diagnosis increasing the risk of oophoprectomy and further infertility. What is New: • Reviewing the latest knowledge about clinical presentation, diagnostic, surgical management, and follow-up of ovarian torsion in the pediatric population. • Adiponectin was negatively associated with diastolic blood pressure and HOMA-IR, and chemerin was negatively associated with glucose.

Ovarian Preservation and Recurrent Torsion in Children: Both Less Common Than We Thought

PURPOSE

Surgical management of pediatric ovarian torsion includes total oophorectomy (TO) or ovarian preservation surgery (OPS). This study sought to identify factors contributing to surgical management and readmission outcomes for ovarian torsion.

METHODS

The Nationwide Readmission Database from 2010-2014 was used to identify patients < 18 years admitted with ovarian torsion. Patient factors, hospital characteristics, and readmission outcomes were compared by TO and OPS. Standard statistical analysis was performed and results were weighted for national estimates.

RESULTS

There were 6028 patients (age 13 ± 4 years) identified with ovarian torsion who underwent either TO (50%) or OPS (50%). Patients had secondary pathology of ovarian cyst (41%), benign mass (19%), and malignant mass (0.4%). OPS was more common in teaching hospitals (84% vs. 74% TO, P<0.001), patients < 13 years of age (41% vs. 37% TO, P = 0.001), and those from high-income households (51% vs. 41% TO, P<0.001). The overall readmission rate was 4%, with no difference between surgical approach (4.3% OPS vs. 4.4% TO, P = 0.882). Of those readmitted (n = 265), readmission diagnoses were cyst (10%), malignant mass (9%), benign mass (7%), and torsion (5%). The overall rate of recurrent torsion was 0.2%, with no difference between OPS and TO (< 0.3% vs. < 0.2%, P = 0.282).

CONCLUSION

Half of pediatric patients are undergoing TO for ovarian torsion in the U.S. and disparities exist with the utilization of OPS. There is no difference in rate of readmission or recurrent torsion between surgical approaches, and the overall rate of retorsion is lower than previously reported.

An adolescent female with a testosterone-secreting ovarian teratoma: a case report

Ovarian neoplasms constitute 1% of childhood tumors. The majority of them are teratomas and usually are asymptomatic or present with paraneoplastic syndromes. Our case is a 16-year-old female who presented with chronic abdominal pain, virilization and oligomenorrhea and found to have a complex cystic mass of the left ovary, more likely cystic teratoma on abdomen and pelvis CT. Further work-up revealed significantly elevated serum total and free testosterone. The patient subsequently underwent left salpingo-oophorectomy confirming the radiological findings. Within two week after surgery, serum testosterone normalized and the patient started having regular menstrual cycles. In summary, ovarian teratomas should be include in the differential diagnosis of abdominal pain and menstrual abnormalities in female adolescents. Further studies are needed to determine the role of ovarian-sparing surgery in this patient population.

Juvenile granulosa cell tumor diagnosed in 6-month-old infant with precocious puberty

Juvenile granulosa cell tumor is a rare tumor diagnosed in children, which can present with precocious puberty. We have reported a case of a 6-month-old female patient who presented with precocious puberty. Abdominopelvic imaging revealed a large mixed cystic and solid mass, with internal solid enhancement, and restricted diffusion. At surgery, mass was confirmed to arise from the left ovary, and histopathology confirmed juvenile granulosa cell tumor. We provide a literature review of juvenile granulosa cell tumor and discuss imaging characteristics of this diagnosis.

Missed opportunities for ovarian salvage in children: an 8-year review of surgically managed ovarian lesions at a tertiary pediatric surgery centre

INTRODUCTION

The aetiology and management of ovarian pathology in children differs between antenatal and postnatal lesions. However, all lesions may present acutely due to adnexal torsion. In this setting, opportunities to preserve fertility with ovary-sparing surgery (OSS) may be missed. Some studies suggest that pediatric and adolescent gynaecology (PAG) input in care is associated with OSS.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study of children undergoing surgery for ovarian pathology at a tertiary pediatric surgery centre over an 8-year period (2011-2018). Patient factors, lesion characteristics and PAG involvement were examined for association with OSS using multivariate logistic regression.

RESULTS

Thirty-five patients with ovarian pathology managed surgically were included. Ten were infants with lesions detected antenatally; all were managed by pediatric surgeons (PS) alone at median age 2 weeks (1 day-25 weeks). Twenty-five patients presented postnatally at median age 11 (0.75-15) years. In total, there were 16 cases of adnexal torsion, each managed primarily by PS. Twelve underwent oophorectomy and six (50%) of these cases had viable ovarian tissue on histology. Furthermore, two infants with large simple cysts were similarly managed by unnecessary oophorectomy based on histology. Overall rate of OSS was 46% and PAG involvement was the only factor associated with ovarian salvage.

CONCLUSION

Differences in surgical management between PAGs and PS may be attributable to the different patient populations they serve. We recommend improving the knowledge of PS trainees in OSS approaches for adnexal torsion and large benign lesions.

Variation in Oophorectomy Rates for Children with Ovarian Torsion across US Children's Hospitals

In this multicenter study of 1783 children diagnosed with ovarian torsion from 2012 to 2017, 402 children (22.5%) underwent oophorectomy. The odds of oophorectomy were higher in children under 11 years of age, children with public insurance, and children with complex chronic conditions. Future efforts should target a preservation-first approach.

Factors Associated with Torsion in Pediatric Patients with Ovarian Masses

BACKGROUND

Management of ovarian torsion has evolved toward ovarian preservation regardless of ovarian appearance during surgery. However, patients with torsion and an ovarian neoplasm undergo a disproportionately high rate of oophorectomy. Our objectives were to identify factors associated with ovarian torsion among females with an ovarian mass and to determine if torsion is associated with malignancy.

METHODS

A retrospective review of females aged 2-21 y who underwent an operation for an ovarian cyst or neoplasm between 2010 and 2016 at 10 children's hospitals was performed. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess factors associated with torsion. Imaging data were assessed for sensitivity, specificity, and predictive value in identifying ovarian torsion.

RESULTS

Of 814 girls with an ovarian neoplasm, 180 (22%) had torsion. In risk-adjusted analyses, patients with a younger age, mass size >5 cm, abdominal pain, and vomiting had an increased likelihood of torsion (P < 0.01 for all). Patients with a mass >5 cm had two times the odds of torsion (odds ratio: 2.1; confidence interval: 1.2, 3.6). Imaging was not reliable at identifying torsion (sensitivity 34%, positive predictive value 49%) or excluding torsion (specificity 72%, negative predictive value 87%). The rates of malignancy were lower in those with an ovarian mass and torsion than those without torsion (10% versus 17%, P = 0.01). Among the 180 girls with torsion and a mass, 48% underwent oophorectomy of which 14% (n = 12) had a malignancy.

CONCLUSIONS

In females with an ovarian neoplasm, torsion is not associated with an increased risk of malignancy and ovarian preservation should be considered.

Ovarian borderline tumor presenting as ovarian torsion in a 17-year-old patient: a case report

Background

Ovarian torsion is a gynecological surgical emergency whose diagnosis remains a challenge. Torsion occurs most frequently in women of reproductive age. It is usually associated with the presence of benign masses in the ovary, as malignant tumors are less frequent and less prone to undergo torsion.

Case presentation

We report the case of a 17-year-old Caucasian patient who presented to the emergency department with lower abdominal pain. Ultrasonography evaluation revealed a unilateral ovarian lesion, 11.2 cm, with features suspicious for malignancy and torsion. The patient was referred for surgical torsion treatment and underwent unilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. The pathology report confirmed a serous borderline ovarian tumor with torsion.

Conclusions

Malignant ovarian torsion in pediatric age groups is rare. Ultrasound examination should be recognized as a powerful tool for diagnosis and management, especially when performed by an experienced ultrasonographer.

Management of Adnexal Torsion in the Pediatric and Adolescent Population at Western Australia's Single Tertiary Children's Hospital over the Last 10 Years: Retrospective Study

OBJECTIVE

To review our institutional data regarding the management of adnexal torsion (AT) and assess the ovarian conservation rates.

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

SETTING

Tertiary children's hospital.

PATIENTS

Pediatric and adolescent patients with surgically diagnosed AT. Participants (n = 54, mean age 9.80 ± 3.95 years) were identified between June 2010 and May 2019.

INTERVENTIONS

Surgical management of AT.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

The primary outcome was to determine the ovarian conservation rates in AT cases. The secondary outcomes were to determine the incidence of AT to total emergency department (ED) presentations, decision to operation theater (OT) time in AT cases, return to OT, histopathology, and follow-up with ultrasound to determine ovarian function. Data were collected on demographic and clinical characteristics. Continuous data were compared with t tests or Kruskal-Wallis tests; categoric data were compared with chi-square tests. A total of 52 (96.29%) patients had ovarian conservation, and 53 (98.14%) had laparoscopic management. The incidence rate for AT cases to total ED presentations for the last 10 years was 9.9 per 100 000, which was based on a Poisson distribution. Presentations to an ED for AT cases have trended upward since 2010. Decision to OT time was statistically significantly shorter in cases with preoperative suspicion of AT than those with intraoperative diagnosis of AT (p = .000). A total of 7 (12.96%) patients returned to OT for suspicion of recurrent torsion. Of these, 5 (9.26%) had confirmed repeat AT. The presence of fever, pain duration, severity of pain, and severity of torsion did not correlate with the follow-up ultrasound findings of ovarian activity.

CONCLUSION

The findings from our study suggest that high ovarian conservation rates are achievable in AT cases. A high index of suspicion is required to prevent a delay in surgery.

The role of laparoscopy in paediatric and adolescent gynaecology

Paediatric and adolescent gynaecology is a narrow field of medicine dealing with the diagnosis of and treatment of gynaecological diseases from the neonatal period to sexual maturity. The current trend in surgical gynaecology in the paediatric population is to minimise the degree of invasiveness of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. This contributes to reducing the number of complications and the risk of infertility. Laparoscopic procedures are a challenge for paediatric surgeons and gynaecologists, not only because of the age of treated patients, and anatomical and physiological differences between different age groups but also because of the complexity of the pathology, the differentiation of cancer tumours, and the presence of congenital developmental defects.

Characteristics and surgical invervention of ovarian torsion in pregnant compared with nonpregnant women

The aim of our study was to compare the clinical and surgical characteristics of pregnant and nonpregnant women with surgically verified ovarian torsion, as well as the differences among 3 trimesters during pregnancy.We conducted a retrospective study of patients diagnosed with surgically proven ovarian torsion in our hospital from January 2012 to June 2018. The clinical characteristics, surgical procedure, pathologic outcomes, and trimesters of pregnancy were analyzed.Thirty-three pregnant and 72 nonpregnant patients diagnosed with surgically proven ovarian torsion were assessed during the study period. The most common presenting symptom in both groups was abdominal pain (90.2% and 99.0%, respectively). The median time from admission to surgery was shorter in pregnant patients than nonpregnant patients (5.3 compared with 47.7 hours, P < .001). Pregnant patients had a higher number of twists than nonpregnant patients (median of 2 compared with 1, P < .01). Benign cyst was the most common cyst causing ovarian torsion in both groups, and luteum cyst was more common in the pregnant group. The mean size of ovarian cyst in pregnant patients was much smaller in the third trimester than the first and the second trimesters (6.6 ± 2.0, 8.4 ± 2.1and 8.1 ± 1.5 cm, respectively; P = .097). Cystectomy performed in the third trimester was more frequent compared with the other 2 trimesters (77.8%, 26.7%, and 22.2%, respectively; P = .021).Abdominal pain is the most common feature of ovarian torsion. Clinical presentation of ovarian torsion is relatively similar between pregnant and nonpregnant women, and among different trimesters. The tumor size was smaller in the third trimester of pregnancy than the other 2 trimesters of pregnancy. Cystectomy performed in pregnant patients is more during the third trimester compared with the other 2 trimesters.

Evaluation of the usefulness of laparoscopy in the diagnosis and treatment of adnexal pathologies in the pediatric population

INTRODUCTION

The current trend in adnexal surgery in children is to minimize the invasiveness of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, reduce the number of complications and reduce the risk of infertility.

AIM

Evaluation of the usefulness and effectiveness of laparoscopy in diagnostics and treatment of pathological lesions of adnexa in the pediatric population and evaluation of the correlation of imaging with the intraoperative diagnosis during laparoscopy.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study included 89 patients aged 0-18 years (mean: 12.62) who underwent an emergency or elective laparoscopic procedure due to the suspicion of adnexa pathology in the imaging tests or in which intraoperative pathology of the adnexa was found without previous suspicion of these changes in the imaging tests. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to the procedure (emergency or elective) and into 4 age groups.

RESULTS

The most frequent postoperative diagnosis was an adnexal cyst and ovarian tumor. The ratio of malignant to benign lesions was 0.087. In 32.58% of patients appendix pathology was found. Coexistence of adnexa and appendix pathology was statistically significantly more frequent in patients undergoing emergency surgery (p = 0.013). There was no correlation between the size of the tumor or ovarian cyst and the occurrence of adnexal torsion, and no correlation between the size of the tumor and the degree of torsion of the adnexa. Three conversions were performed. The average operation time was 63.7 min.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic diagnosis and treatment of adnexal pathology seems to be safe due to the low percentage of perioperative complications. It shows high sensitivity in recognizing adnexal pathologies and other defects.

Ovarian torsion: developing a machine-learned algorithm for diagnosis

BACKGROUND

Ovarian torsion is a common concern in girls presenting to emergency care with pelvic or abdominal pain. The diagnosis is challenging to make accurately and quickly, relying on a combination of physical exam, history and radiologic evaluation. Failure to establish the diagnosis in a timely fashion can result in irreversible ovarian ischemia with implications for future fertility. Ultrasound is the mainstay of evaluation for ovarian torsion in the pediatric population. However, even with a high index of suspicion, imaging features are not pathognomonic.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to develop an algorithm to aid radiologists in diagnosing ovarian torsion using machine learning from sonographic features and to evaluate the frequency of each sonographic element.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All pediatric patients treated for ovarian torsion at a quaternary pediatric hospital over an 11-year period were identified by both an internal radiology database and hospital-based International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD) code review. Inclusion criteria were surgical confirmation of ovarian torsion and available imaging. Patients were excluded if the diagnosis could not be confirmed, no imaging was available for review, the ovary was not identified by imaging, or torsion involved other adnexal structures but spared the ovary. Data collection included: patient age; laterality of torsion; bilateral ovarian volumes; torsed ovarian position, i.e. whether medialized with respect to the mid-uterine line; presence or absence of Doppler signal within the torsed ovary; visualization of peripheral follicles; and presence of a mass or cyst, and free peritoneal fluid. Subsequently, we evaluated a non-torsed control cohort from April 2015 to May 2016. This cohort consisted of sequential girls and young adults presenting to the emergency department with abdominopelvic symptoms concerning for ovarian torsion but who were ultimately diagnosed otherwise. These features were then fed into supervised machine learning systems to identify and develop viable decision algorithms. We divided data into training and validation sets and assessed algorithm performance using sub-sets of the validation set.

RESULTS

We identified 119 torsion-confirmed cases and 331 torsion-absent cases. Of the torsion-confirmed cases, significant imaging differences were evident for girls younger than 1 year; these girls were then excluded from analysis, and 99 pediatric patients older than 1 year were included in our study. Among these 99, all variables demonstrated statistically significant differences between the torsion-confirmed and torsion-absent groups with P-values <0.005. Using any single variable to identify torsion provided only modest detection performance, with areas under the curve (AUC) for medialization, peripheral follicles, and absence of Doppler flow of 0.76±0.16, 0.66±0.14 and 0.82±0.14, respectively. The best decision tree using a combination of variables yielded an AUC of 0.96±0.07 and required knowledge of the presence of intra-ovarian flow, peripheral follicles, the volume of both ovaries, and the presence of cysts or masses.

CONCLUSION

Based on the largest series of pediatric ovarian torsion in the literature to date, we quantified sonographic features and used machine learning to create an algorithm to identify the presence of ovarian torsion - an algorithm that performs better than simple approaches relying on single features. Although complex combinations using multiple-interaction models provide slightly better performance, a clinically pragmatic decision tree can be employed to detect torsion, providing sensitivity levels of 95±14% and specificity of 92±2%.

Torsion of Granulosa Cell Tumor of the Ovary in a Preschool Patient: A Rare Cause of Acute Abdomen

Patient: Female, 5-year-old

Final Diagnosis: Granulosa cell tumor of the ovary

Symptoms: Abdomen distension • abdominal mass • abdominal pain

Medication:—

Clinical Procedure: Diagnostic tests, surgical treatment and chemotherapy

Specialty: Pediatrics and Neonatology

Adnexal Masses in Adolescents

Adnexal masses in adolescents, such as functional cysts, are often benign and can usually be managed expectantly since they typically regress on their own. The most common ovarian neoplasm in adolescents is a benign cystic teratoma. Both functional cysts and benign cystic teratomas are associated with ovarian torsion. Of concern, ovarian torsion requires a high level of suspicion when adolescents present with acute abdominal pain, as almost one-half of cases have no associated adnexal masses. The most common malignant adnexal masses in this age group include germ cell tumors, followed by epithelial cell tumors. Finally, ectopic pregnancy and tubo-ovarian abscesses must be considered in the differential diagnosis of adnexal mass, as delays in treatment may seriously affect an adolescent's health and future fertility. Obtaining an accurate history, including a sexual history, requires reviewing this history with the adolescent privately. Management of adnexal mases should prioritize fertility preservation. [Pediatr Ann. 2020;49(4):e183-e187.].

Gynecological cancer among adolescents and young adults (AYA)

Adolescents and young adults (AYA) patients with cancer show specific biological, sociodemographic and behavioral features, with lower survival rates than younger group. Gynecologic malignancies that occur among AYA requires a multidisciplinary management and a tailored model of care, in order to enhance the early diagnosis, the adherence to the treatment, the enrollment in clinical trials, the rate of survival and the quality of life (QoL). In this article, we review the main gynecological tumors that may occur in AYA, with a focus on the clinical signs at the diagnosis and the modality of treatment. In addition, we proposed a model of multidisciplinary and personalized care for AYA with gynecological tumors, which can help the clinicians to manage the specific gynecologic concerns, such as ovarian failure, contraception, fertility, late psychosocial effects.

Approaches to the management of pediatric ovarian masses in the 21st century: Systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopy is increasingly being adopted for the treatment of ovarian pathologies in adults. However, its implementation for the management of pediatric ovarian masses varies and the evidence, to date, has not been comprehensively analyzed. This review aims to compare laparoscopic and open surgical management of pediatric ovarian masses.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library and Google Scholar from the year 2000 till April 2017. Studies selected for this included those on epidemiological trends of pediatric ovarian lesions, assessing outcomes of laparoscopic management and comparison of laparoscopic and open surgical techniques for pediatric ovarian masses. A meta-analysis comparing outcomes of both modalities was performed using standard methodology.

RESULTS

A total of 44 studies met the inclusion criteria of which 15 were on histological types of ovarian lesions, 24 assessed laparoscopic management only and five compared laparoscopy with open surgery for pediatric ovarian masses. Nonneoplastic lesions were the most common ranging from 36.5% to 73.7%, with cystic lesions being the most prevalent. Neoplastic lesions ranged between 26.3% and 63.5%, with germ cell tumors being the most common, while malignancy ranged between 3.5% and 10.8%. Laparoscopic management was generally advocated for managing benign lesions with a cautious approach for suspicion of malignant lesions. In comparison to open surgery, laparoscopic surgery had shorter operating time (MD = -33.24 min, 95% CI = -34.29 to -32.19, p < 0.0001), less intraop bleeding (MD = - 61.46 ml, 95% CI = -62.69 to -60.24, p < 0.0001), and reduced length of hospital stay (MD = -2.78 days, 95% CI= -2.82 to -2.74, p<0.0001). Complication rates were equivocal between the two approaches. Spillage rates could not be assessed.

CONCLUSION

Limited evidence suggests that laparoscopic approach to presumptively benign ovarian masses have better outcomes when compared to open surgery with regards to operating time, blood loss and hospital stay. However, complication rates were similar between the two approaches. Studies with rigorous scientific methods are needed for a definitive recommendation, especially in resource limiting settings. However malignant lesions should still be managed with an open surgical approach to avoid upstaging of disease status.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II.

Results of Ovarian Sparing Surgery in Pediatric Patients: Is There a Place for Laparoscopy?

Background: Laparoscopy is widely accepted for the surgical treatment of benign ovarian lesions in adult women, with results similar to an open approach when spillage is avoided by different means such as endobag retrieval. This approach is controversial in children. Materials and Methods: Retrospective study (2009-2018) of all pediatric ovarian tumors with histological confirmation treated in a tertiary center. Data regarding preoperative selection criteria, surgical technique, and follow-up were registered. Laparoscopy was used only in tumors without malignant features and whose size allowed retrieving them through a small incision without morcellating. Emphasis was set in ovarian sparing surgery (OSS), comparing the results of open (OP) and laparoscopic (LPC) approach. Results: During the study period, 48 suspicious lesions in 45 patients were operated. Thirty cases (32 tumors) showed benign features (10 cystadenomas, 14 mature teratomas, 6 nontumor lesions); treatment consisted in oophorectomy in 13 (OP 6, LPC 7) and OSS in 17 (OP 5, LPC 12). There was one conversion in the LPC group. Mean follow-up was 3.44 years (range 0.03-8.84), based on annual ultrasound (US) and tumor markers during at least 5 years, recommending a lifetime follow-up by a gynecologist. There was only one relapse in a laparoscopically enucleated cystadenoma, and 2 patients developed contralateral metacronous teratomas. No procedure-related complications happened. Conclusions: Our series, although small and with a limited follow-up, suggest that laparoscopy could be an option of treatment in a subset of highly selected patients, although laparotomy remains the gold standard approach if malignancy is suspected.

Ovarian neoplasms of childhood

Ovarian neoplasms are rare in children. Although usually asymptomatic, they sometimes present with abdominal pain, abdominal distension or palpable mass. The distribution of neoplasms in the pediatric population is different from in adults; benign mature cystic teratoma is the most common ovarian tumor in children. Radiologists should be familiar with the variable sonographic, CT and MRI findings of ovarian neoplasms. Although the less frequently encountered ovarian malignancies cannot be reliably distinguished by imaging alone, it does play an important role in workup. This review discusses the imaging and relevant clinical manifestations of the more commonly encountered pediatric ovarian neoplasms.

No. 341-Diagnosis and Management of Adnexal Torsion in Children, Adolescents, and Adults

OBJECTIVE

To review the evidence and provide recommendations on the diagnosis and management of adnexal torsion in children, adolescents, and women.

OUTCOMES

Elements evaluated include the risk factors, diagnostic accuracy, management options, and outcomes of adnexal torsion.

EVIDENCE

Published literature was retrieved through searches of MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Library using appropriate controlled vocabulary and key words ("adnexal torsion," "ovarian torsion"). Results were restricted to systematic reviews, randomized control trials/controlled clinical trials, and observational studies. Searches were updated on a regular basis and new material incorporated in the guideline to December 2014. Grey (unpublished) literature was identified through searching the websites of health technology assessment and related agencies, clinical practice guideline collections, clinical trial registries, and national and international medical specialty societies.

VALUES

The evidence obtained was reviewed and evaluated by the Canadian Paediatric and Adolescent Gynaecology and Obstetrics Committee of the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC) under the leadership of the principal authors. Recommendations were made according to guidelines developed by the Canadian Task Force on the Periodic Health Examination.

BENEFITS, HARMS AND COSTS

Guideline implementation should assist the practitioner in developing an optimal approach to the diagnosis and management of adnexal torsion while minimizing harm and improving patient outcomes.

VALIDATION

These guidelines have been reviewed and approved by the Gynaecology Committee of the SOGC and approved by the council of the SOGC.

SPONSOR

The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada SUMMARY STATEMENTS: RECOMMENDATIONS.

Factors Associated With Management of Pediatric Ovarian Neoplasms

BACKGROUND

Available evidence supports ovary-sparing surgery for benign ovarian neoplasms; however, preoperative risk stratification of pediatric ovarian masses can be difficult. Our objective of this study was to characterize the surgical management of pediatric ovarian neoplasms across 10 children's hospitals and to identify factors that could potentially aid in the preoperative risk stratification of these lesions.

METHODS

A retrospective review of girls and women aged 2 to 21 years who underwent surgery for an ovarian neoplasm between 2010 and 2016 at 10 children's hospitals was performed. Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine the relationships between the preoperative cohort characteristics, procedure performed, and risk of malignancy.

RESULTS

Among 819 girls and women undergoing surgery for an ovarian neoplasm, malignant lesions were identified in 11%. The overall oophorectomy rate for benign disease was 33% (range: 15%-49%) across institutions. Oophorectomy for benign lesions was independently associated with provider specialty (P = .002: adult gynecologist, 45%; pediatric surgeon, 32%; pediatric gynecologist, 18%), premenarchal status (P = .02), preoperative suspicion for malignancy (P < .0001), larger lesion size (P < .0001), and presence of solid components (P < .0001). Preoperative findings independently associated with malignancy included increasing size (P < .0001), solid components (P = .003), and age (P < .0001).

CONCLUSIONS

The rate of oophorectomy for benign ovarian disease remains high within the pediatric population. Identification of factors associated with the choice of procedure and the risk of malignancy may allow for improved preoperative risk stratification and fewer unnecessary oophorectomies. These results have been used to develop and validate a multidisciplinary preoperative risk stratification algorithm that is currently being studied prospectively across 10 institutions.

Pediatric ovarian torsion: Follow- up after preservation of ovarian tissue

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of the preservation of ovarian tissue in cases of ovarian torsion.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective study was performed of patients treated at our hospital for ovarian torsion from January 2007 to December 2017. This research does not include patients with antenatal ovarian torsion and 1 girl with an immature teratoma, in whom the twisted ovary was removed during the initial operation. Follow-up ultrasonography of all patients was performed after 4-6 weeks and again after more than 12 weeks. Volume, blood flow and folliculogenesis of the ovary were measured and assessed.

RESULTS

All 42 ovaries (39 patients) preserved their normal anatomy and folliculogenesis after detorsion. All patients had an enlarged ovary at the time of detorsion. In all cases of ovarian torsion, enlargement of the ovary up to an average of 58.14 ± 52.86 (17.37-86.83) ml was detected. After 4-6 weeks, all untwisted ovaries decreased in volume by an average of 9.01 ± 13.69 (2.33-9.30) times, and 59.5% of them became normal in size. In 3 girls, enlarged ovaries were still observed after 12 weeks. Teratoma was diagnosed for these patients and ovarian sparing operations were performed.

CONCLUSIONS

It is safe to perform detorsion regardless of the level of ischemia or volume of the affected ovary. The follow-up is essential, especially for the further diagnostics of potential pathological structures or tumors; therefore, the normalization of blood flow and the volume of the ovary must be monitored.

TYPE OF STUDY

Prognosis retrospective study.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II.

Ovarian Torsion in Premenarchal Girls

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To investigate characteristics that differentiate premenarchal girls with ovarian torsion (OT) from those without OT at the time of surgery.

DESIGN

Retrospective chart review of 36 premenarchal girls who underwent 42 surgeries for either OT (n = 33) or a nontorsed ovarian mass (n = 9) from 2006 to 2017.

SETTING

Large, tertiary care academic institution.

PARTICIPANTS

We included patients aged 0-12 years with International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision codes for torsion of the ovary, adnexa, ovarian pedicle, or fallopian tube. Controls had International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision codes for ovarian mass or cyst, who also underwent surgery and did not have OT.

INTERVENTIONS

Records were reviewed for patient characteristics including laboratory and imaging studies, surgical intervention, and pathologic diagnosis. Fischer exact test and the nonparametric Mann-Whitney U test were used for statistical analysis.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Characteristics predictive of OT in premenarchal girls.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine premenarchal patients were diagnosed with 33 episodes of OT. Nine patients underwent surgery for ovarian masses but did not have OT. All patients with OT reported abdominal pain (compared with 55.6% without OT; P < .001) and most had nausea and/or emesis (81.8% vs 33.3%; P < .009). Ultrasound findings of ovarian enlargement and decreased Doppler flow were significant in the OT group (P < .083, P < .009). There were 2 cases of malignancy in each group.

CONCLUSION

Patients with OT had significantly more nausea, emesis, and abdominal pain compared with those without OT. Additionally, 2 of 4 malignancies were found in patients with OT, indicating that malignancy should still be considered with large, complex masses.

Ovarian masses in the child and adolescent: An American Pediatric Surgical Association Outcomes and Evidence-Based Practice Committee systematic review

BACKGROUND

The treatment of ovarian masses in pediatric patients should balance appropriate surgical management with the preservation of future reproductive capability. Preoperative estimation of malignant potential is essential to planning an optimal surgical strategy.

METHODS

The American Pediatric Surgical Association Outcomes and Evidence-Based Practice Committee drafted three consensus-based questions regarding the evaluation and treatment of ovarian masses in pediatric patients. A search of PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science was performed and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed to identify articles for review.

RESULTS

Preoperative tumor markers, ultrasound malignancy indices, and the presence or absence of the ovarian crescent sign on imaging can help estimate malignant potential prior to surgical resection. Frozen section also plays a role in operative strategy. Surgical staging is useful for directing chemotherapy and for prognostication. Both unilateral oophorectomy and cystectomy have been used successfully for germ cell and borderline ovarian tumors, although cystectomy may be associated with higher rates of local recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

Malignant potential of ovarian masses can be estimated preoperatively, and fertility-sparing techniques may be appropriate depending on the type of tumor. This review provides recommendations based on a critical evaluation of recent literature.

TYPE OF STUDY

Systematic review of level 1-4 studies.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 1-4 (mainly 3-4).

Adnexal Torsion in Children and Adolescents: A Retrospective Review of 245 Cases at a Single Institution

STUDY OBJECTIVE

Adnexal torsion (AT) requires urgent surgical intervention to preserve ovarian function. Historically, treatment for AT was oophorectomy because of concerns related to leaving a nonviable ischemic ovary. No published studies support these theoretical concerns and current literature supports conservative management. The aim of this study was to review the institutional outcomes for AT cases, including salvage rates and complications. DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, INTERVENTIONS, AND MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: This study was approved by the institutional review board at Baylor College of Medicine. A retrospective chart review on cases of AT from 2007 to 2016 at a single Children's hospital was performed on the basis of International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision and Current Procedural Terminology codes. A standardized chart review form was used in data extraction. Statistical analysis was performed using SAS version 9.4 (SAS Institute).

RESULTS

Chart review identified 245 torsion cases in 237 patients. The mean age was 12.4 ± 3.29 years. Of the participants, 230 (94%) underwent minimally invasive laparoscopy with ovarian preservation in 233 (95%) of the cases. There were no complications due to detorsion of the affected adnexa. Intraoperatively, the right adnexa was affected in 134 (55%) cases and a lesion was noted in 193 (79%) cases, most commonly paratubal cysts and mature teratomas. The malignancy rate was low, noted only in 4/245 patients at (1.2%). Pediatric gynecology performed most of the cases (n = 214; 87%).

CONCLUSION

The findings of our study continue to support the conservative management of patients with AT.

Controversies in the management of ovarian tumours in prepubertal children - A BAPS and UK CCLG Surgeons Cancer Group National Survey

BACKGROUND

No clear treatment and follow-up protocols have been established for prepubertal patients with ovarian tumours. The lack of adequate prospective data in the literature includes all aspects of their management. A significant number of children with ovarian masses present out of hours as a surgical emergency and are initially managed by paediatric surgeons without special interest in surgical oncology. Clear guidance on the management of such tumours is therefore fundamental. We hypothesised that - owing to the lack of clear guidelines - the current approach to prepubertal ovarian tumours amongst paediatric surgeons is highly heterogenous.

METHODS

An eleven-item multiple choice questionnaire was distributed amongst all BAPS consultant paediatric surgeons in the UK and simultaneously to all paediatric surgical oncology members of the UK Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Group in order to survey the management of ovarian masses in children. We aimed to compare the management approaches in both groups.

RESULTS

63 consultants participated in the survey; 49% with a special interest in surgical oncology, 48% with different subspecialty interests. The majority of participants (56%) performed 1-5 operations on ovarian tumours per year. Preoperative imaging of choice for the oncology surgeons was US and MRI (77.3%) versus 41.4% in the group of surgeons with different special interests. Surgeons with different special interests were more likely to request Ca125 as a preoperative tumour marker (62.1% vs 32.3%). 19.3% of oncology surgeons, and 27.6% of surgeons with other special interest stated they would never remove an ovarian tumour via the laparoscopic approach. Follow-up practise was highly variable amongst survey participants in both surgeon groups regarding frequency, duration and further investigations during follow-up. Almost 50% of participants follow their patients up according to personal practice protocols.

CONCLUSION

This first national survey on the management of prepubertal ovarian tumours demonstrates great heterogeneity in the current approach amongst UK paediatric surgeons. Better evidence is needed to formulate clear guidance for the management of such tumours. We propose instigation of a multicentre registry for ovarian tumours to generate prospective data and clarify guidance for the future.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE STATEMENT

This is a level II evidence study. In itself it is a retrospective study, with the literature review including one large, high-quality prospective cohort study, and further prospective cohort studies of ordinary quality.

Adnexal Torsion

Adnexal torsion is an uncommon gynecologic disorder caused by the partial or complete rotation of the ovary and/or the fallopian tube on its vascular support. Delay in treatment can impact fertility adversely. The objective of this report is to provide clinical recommendations based on the latest evidence. Specifically we discuss epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic approach and management of adnexal torsion in adolescents.

Magnetic resonance imaging of pediatric adnexal masses and mimics

Evaluation of adnexal masses in children and adolescents relies on imaging for appropriate diagnosis and management. Pelvic MRI is indicated and adds value for all adnexal masses when surgery is considered or when ultrasound findings are indeterminate. Specifically, features on MR imaging can help distinguish between benign and malignant lesions, which not only influences the decision between surgery and conservative treatment, but also the type of surgery to be performed, including potential use of fertility-sparing approaches with minimally invasive techniques. Larger size, younger age, presentation with precocious puberty or virilization, restricted diffusion in a solid mass, and rapid and strong enhancement of solid components are all features concerning for malignancy. In addition, distinctive MR imaging features of adnexal masses, combined with clinical and laboratory biomarkers, might suggest a specific histological diagnosis.

Ovarian torsion in pediatric and adolescent patients: A systematic review

OBJECTIVE

Ovarian torsion in pediatric patients is a rare event and is primarily managed by pediatric general surgeons. Torsion can be treated with detorsion of the ovary or oopherectomy. Oopherectomy is the most common procedure performed by pediatric general surgeons for ovarian torsion. The purpose of this systematic review by the American Pediatric Surgical Association Outcomes and Evidence Based Practice Committee was to examine evidence from the medical literature and provide recommendations regarding the optimal treatment of ovarian torsion.

METHODS

Using PRISMA guidelines, six questions were addressed by searching Medline, Cochrane, Embase Central and National clearing house databases using relevant search terms. Risks of ovarian detorsion including thromboembolism and malignancy, indications for oophoropexy, benefits of detorsion including recovery of function and subsequent fertility, and recommended surveillance after detorsion were evaluated. Consensus recommendations were derived for each question based on the best available evidence.

RESULTS

Ninety-six studies were included. Risks of ovarian detorsion such as thromboembolism and malignancy were reviewed, demonstrating minimal evidence for unknowingly leaving a malignancy behind in the salvaged ovary and no evidence in the literature of thromboembolic events after detorsion of a torsed ovary. There is no clear evidence supporting the benefit of oophoropexy after a single episode of ovarian torsion. The gross appearance of the ovary does not correlate with long-term ovarian viability or function. Pregnancies have occurred in patients after detorsion of an ovary both spontaneously and with harvested oocytes from previously torsed ovaries. The consensus recommendation for imaging surveillance following ovarian detorsion is an ultrasound at 3months postprocedure but sooner if there is a concern for malignancy.

CONCLUSION

There appears to be overwhelming evidence supporting ovarian detorsion rather than oopherectomy for the management of ovarian torsion in pediatric patients. Ovarian salvage is safe and is the preferred treatment for ovarian torsion. Most salvaged ovaries will maintain viability after detorsion.

TYPE OF STUDY

Systematic review of level 3-4 studies.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3-4.