Ovarian and adnexal torsion: spectrum of sonographic findings with pathologic correlation

To determine the spectrum of sonographic findings on gray scale and color Doppler sonography in a series of pathologically proven cases of ovarian and adnexal torsion.

The study population included 15 patients with surgical confirmation of ovarian or adnexal torsion, or both, who underwent sonographic examination before surgery. All sonograms were reviewed retrospectively.

Gray scale abnormalities included the following: complex masses in 11 (73%) of 15 patients, cystic masses in 3 (20%), and a solid mass in 1 (7%). Cul-de-sac fluid was present in 13 (87%) of 15 patients. Adnexal neoplasms were present in 4 (27%) of 15 (1 granulosa cell tumor and 3 dermoid cysts) on pathologic examination. Doppler findings were abnormal in 14 (93%) of 15 patients and normal in 1 (7%). Abnormal Doppler findings included no arterial and no venous flow in 6 (40%) of 15, decreased venous flow with no arterial flow in 5 (33%), decreased venous flow and decreased arterial flow in 2 (13%), and decreased arterial flow with no venous flow in 1 (7%). Small amounts of cul-de-sac fluid were present in 13 (87%) of 15 patients.

The diagnosis of ovarian and adnexal torsion remains challenging. It cannot be based solely on the absence or presence of flow on color Doppler sonography, because the presence of arterial or venous flow does not exclude the diagnosis of adnexal torsion. Comparison with the morphologic appearance and flow patterns of the contralateral ovary will aid in diagnosis.