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Ovarian torsion — acute pelvic pain 🚨 🩺
Ovarian torsion — acute pelvic pain 🚨 🩺
Rotation of the ovary may obstruct venous then arterial flow, threatening ovarian viability; pain can fluctuate with intermittent torsion.
🔎 Recognise
Sudden unilateral lower abdominal or pelvic pain, often with vomiting, may occur with or without a known ovarian cyst. Always assess pregnancy possibility and ectopic pregnancy.
🛟 First actions
Give appropriate analgesia, arrange an urgent gynaecology review and keep the patient nil by mouth if surgery is likely. Resuscitate if unstable or haemorrhage is suspected.
🧪 Investigations and reassessment
Pregnancy testing, observations, FBC and pelvic ultrasonography are commonly used while assessing differentials. The need for diagnostic laparoscopy is a specialist decision.
⚠️ Common pitfalls and escalation
Normal ovarian Doppler flow does not reliably rule out torsion, because dual blood supply or intermittent torsion may preserve detectable perfusion.
UK reference: NHS ovarian cyst and torsion risk. Focused editorial source check, 7 November 2026; this is not independent clinical or pharmacy sign-off. Verify current local policy, BNF/BNFC and specialist advice before treatment. Not a prescribing protocol.
Related guides: Acute pelvic pain — FY quick guide ⚠️ 🤰 · Ectopic Pregnancy
| The content on this website is provided for educational and informational purposes only to support exam preparation (e.g., MLA, MRCP, USMLE) and learning. This is NOT medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or professional guidance. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional, official guidelines (e.g., NICE, GMC, BNF), or supervised clinical practice. Always verify information with current, authoritative sources. Makindo and its contributors accept no liability for any reliance on this content, including errors, omissions, or any resulting harm, loss, or consequences. By using this site, you agree to these terms. |
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