Chronic isolated fallopian tube torsion

Abstract

Objective: To describe a case of chronic isolated fallopian tubal torsion in a woman without identifiable risk factors and discuss the difficulty of diagnosis.

Design: Case report.

Setting: University-based reproductive endocrinology and infertility center.

Patient(s): Multiparous woman with no risk factors of torsion of the fallopian tube presenting with chronic right lower quadrant pain.

Intervention: Laparoscopy with subsequent salpingectomy.

Main outcome measure(s): Resolution of symptoms. Preservation of ovary and future fertility.

Result(s): Patient's symptoms resolved after salpingectomy. Information regarding future fertility is pending.

Conclusion(s): Isolated fallopian tube torsion is rare and often difficult to diagnose. Despite ultrasonographic evidence of arterial and/or venous flow to the adnexa, adnexal torsion cannot be ruled out. If clinical suspicion for torsion is high, early diagnosis and treatment via laparoscopy is encouraged as a means of preserving fallopian tube integrity and maintaining fertility, especially in reproductive-age women.