Ovarian transposition surgery to preserve female fertility after cancer radiation therapy

Verified by: Dr. Richa Bansal – Consultant, Gynaec-Oncology & Robotic Surgery, Apollo Cancer Centers, Navi Mumbai

The incidence of cancers in younger age groups has been on the rise. Medically advanced treatment options result in better outcomes in terms of survival and quality of life. In today’s era, quality of life after conquering cancer has become an important issue for these young cancer survivors. As for women, fertility is a major concern when they are being treated for gynecological cancers.

Cancer treatment in women can have harmful effects on their fertility. Radiation therapy to the pelvis area is an essential component of curative treatment for many cancers like cancer of the cervix, rectum and lymphomas and sarcomas of the pelvis. This can lead to potential harmful effects on ovaries and loss of hormonal function resulting in infertility and premature menopause respectively along with reduced quality of life.

Additionally, female fertility in the younger age groups is a cause of concern due to the underlying emotional trauma and the burden of the society to bear children. Therefore, it is important to device innovative ways to preserve female fertility without compromising oncological outcomes or survival. Ovarian transposition is a useful surgical procedure to prevent damage to the ovaries during radiation therapy.

What is ovarian transposition?

Ovarian transposition or Oophoropexy is the surgical relocation of the ovaries in the upper abdomen away from the radiation field. Laparoscopic ovarian transposition is done before radiation therapy begins, where one or both ovaries and fallopian tubes are detached from the uterus and transposed in the upper abdomen.

What are the benefits of ovarian transposition?

• Preservation of both the eggs and ovarian hormones is possible
• Increases the chances of future fertility
• Decreases the risk of premature menopause
• Does not involve any delay in the definitive treatment of cancer
• One time cost

Gynecological oncology is a specialized field dealing with complex cancers of the female reproductive organs. These include cancers of the cervix, vagina, vulva, uterus, ovary, fallopian tubes, peritoneal cancer, etc. Gynecologic oncologists have the expertise to manage these cancers, including diagnosing and staging the disease and performing surgery to remove the cancer. They also help one to preserve their fertility by performing ovarian transposition surgery before one undergoes pelvic radiation for the above-mentioned cancers.

Consult the best Gynec Onco Surgeon in Mumbai.

If you or your loved one need assistance for gynecological cancer treatment and are also considering future pregnancy, book an appointment on 022 6280 6280 or visit Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai for an expert opinion.

Dr. Richa Bansal

Consultant, Gynaec-Oncology & Robotic Surgery, Apollo Cancer Centers, Navi Mumbai