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Ovarian Tissue Cryopreservation

In oncofertility, freezing of ovarian cortex strips offers fertility option to prepubertal girls.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department. Book Appointment →

What is Ovarian Tissue Cryopreservation?

Ovarian tissue cryopreservation is performed in patient groups expected to undergo gonadotoxic treatment that will damage the primordial follicle reserve. The procedure includes removal of ovarian tissue by laparoscopic oophorectomy or cortical biopsy, separation into strips in the laboratory, and freezing by vitrification.

After treatment is completed, the tissue is transplanted orthotopically (to the ovarian fossa) or heterotopically (to the abdominal wall, forearm). Follicle activation and ovulation can be seen within months; successful live births have been reported in the hundreds.

It is the preferred method especially in prepubertal girls and in emergency cancer treatments where there is no time for gonadotropin response. It can also be considered in candidates for prophylactic oophorectomy carrying BRCA mutations.

Symptoms

Fertility concerns before gonadotoxic chemotherapy
Pelvic radiotherapy candidates
Prepubertal cancer diagnosis
Immunoablative therapy due to autoimmune disease
Mosaic Turner syndrome
Patients planned for bone marrow transplantation

Risk Factors

Use of alkylating agents
Pelvic radiotherapy
Bone marrow transplant conditioning regimen
BRCA1/2 mutation carriers
Family history of early menopause
Ovarian surgery due to endometriosis

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Before treatment after a new cancer diagnosis
  • When the oncologist recommends a fertility-risky protocol
  • In prepubertal cancer cases together with pediatric oncology
  • When risk-reducing surgery is planned with BRCA carriership

Treatment Methods

01
Laparoscopic ovarian biopsy or oophorectomy
02
Freezing of cortical strips by vitrification
03
Oncofertility counseling
04
Orthotopic or heterotopic retransplantation after treatment
05
Hormone and fertility monitoring
06
Embryo creation by IVF if necessary

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.