IFTT in children and adolescents—single-center experience and systematic review of literature

Abstract

Abstract

Purpose

Isolated fallopian tube torsion (IFTT) is defined by rotation of the fallopian tube around itself without involving the ipsilateral ovary. It is a rare cause of acute lower abdominal pain in (adolescent) girls, but is commonly overlooked. Due to its rarity, literature is still scarce. Currently there is no generally accepted management and treatment.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of all IFTT cases treated in our institution was performed. In addition, a systematic literature research on pediatric IFTT was carried out on Medline/ PubMed database according to PRISMA principles using predefined search terms and inclusion criteria. Patient characteristics regarding age, clinical symptoms, diagnostic methods, treatment, and follow-up were analyzed.

Results

Three of our patients and fifty-nine reports totaling one hundred seventy girls were included in the analysis. Mean age was 13.0 years. Left tube was slightly more often affected (52.9%). Abdominal pain was present in 99.4% of cases accompanied with nausea in 57.1%. In only 16.4%, correct preoperative diagnosis was made. Salpingectomy was the most common treatment in 111 (66.9%) cases, 55 (33.1%) patients were treated with detorsion of the tube (organ-sparing management). Girls with symptoms longer than 1 day had a significant higher rate of salpingectomy (95% CI, P = 0.0323).

Conclusion

When IFTT is suspected, emergency laparoscopy should be performed to possibly preserve future reproductive potential. In case of detorsion and reinstated blood supply, organ-preserving management should be performed with simultaneous addressment of concomitant pathology if possible. Sufficient long-term follow-up must be assured to get significant results to introduce guidelines for children and adolescents.

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