Washington Medical Center

Case Highlight: When Abdominal Pain Is More than Just Pain

A young woman came to our MCH and Surgical branch with persistent lower abdominal pain of one week, along with vomiting. While this might seem like a common issue, her symptoms were a warning sign of something more serious.
On examination, doctors found a large, tender abdominal mass, about the size of a 14-week pregnancy.

Further imaging using ultrasound and MRI revealed a large cystic mass in the pelvis, likely arising from the left o***y. The position and appearance of the mass raised concern for ovarian torsion, a condition where the o***y twists around its supporting structures, cutting off its blood supply. Given the urgency, the gynecology and obstetrics team performed an emergency open surgery (exploratory laparotomy).

During surgery, a very large mass (20 × 20 cm) arising from the left o***y was discovered. The o***y had twisted 1080 degrees (three full turns) leading to complete loss of blood supply and gangrene (tissue death). The affected o***y and mass were surgically managed, and the patient recovered well after the operation.

Ovarian torsion is a surgical emergency: it occurs when the o***y twists, cutting off its own blood supply. Without early treatment, the o***y can become non-viable. Time is critical
early diagnosis can sometimes save the o***y. Delayed care, may lead to irreversible damage.

For elective as well as emergency gynecology & surgical care, visit Washington Healthcare Bulbula MCH & Surgical Center.