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Successful human ovarian autotransplantation to the upper arm
Author(s) -
Hilders Carina G.,
Baranski Andrzej G.,
Peters Lex,
Ramkhelawan Andre,
Trimbos J. Baptist
Publication year - 2004
Publication title -
cancer
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.052
H-Index - 304
eISSN - 1097-0142
pISSN - 0008-543X
DOI - 10.1002/cncr.20715
Subject(s) - autotransplantation , medicine , ovary , surgery , microsurgery , transplantation , radiation therapy , fertility preservation , anastomosis , ovarian cancer , cancer , fertility , population , environmental health
Abstract In young patients with cervical carcinoma, the standard surgical treatment is often followed by postoperative radiotherapy. This treatment strategy, although resulting in a significant increase in cure rates, often causes infertility and premature ovarian failure. Ovarian autotransplantation outside the field of radiotherapy is a new technique to preserve gonadal function.One ovary was transplanted to the left upper arm during the surgical treatment for cervical carcinoma. Vascular anastomoses were performed by microsurgery. After transplantation, the ovary showed adequate arterial and venous blood flow. By clinical examination and ultrasound monitoring, the ovarian cycles remained regular and follicle growth occurred normally for > 1 year. Heterotopic autotransplantation of the ovary to the upper arm is a promising surgical technique to maintain the ovarian function in women who become menopausal due to cancer treatment regimens. Cancer 2004. © 2004 American Cancer Society.