Autotransplantation of cryopreserved ovarian tissue--effective method of fertility preservation in cancer patients

Abstract

Objective: To review the literature and to present the latest advances in the autotransplantation of cryopreserved ovarian tissue.

Materials and methods: A literature review was conducted for all relevant articles assessing the fertility preservation, ovarian tissue transplantation, standard freezing and vitrification of ovarian tissue.

Results: One of the promising and effective methods for fertility preservation may be the autotransplantation of cryopreserved ovarian tissue. At present, 30 babies have been born after orthotopic autotransplantation of frozen-thawed human ovarian tissue. Restoration of ovarian activity occurs between 3.5 months and 6.5 months. The longevity of autotransplanted ovarian tissue is about 5-7 years. The follicles are similarly preserved after all freezing methods; however, the ovarian stroma is significantly better preserved after vitrification than after slow freezing. An important topic for further research is preparation of the "vascular bed", optimization of vitrification technique and the development of alternative procedures to avoid the transmission of cancer cells via ovarian tissue autotransplantation - "artificial ovary".

Conclusions: Cryopreservation of ovarian tissue has unique advantages over other strategies. This method: (1) does not delay cancer treatment; (2) is safer for hormone dependent malignancy; (3) can be done independent of menstrual cycles; (4) is the only option for prepubertal girls; (5) can restore not only fertility but endocrine function.

Keywords: Chemotherapy; fertility preservation; ovarian tissue transplantation; radiotherapy; standard freezing; vitrification.