A simple technique of ovarian suspension in preparation for in vitro fertilization

Because laparoscopic ovum harvest for IVF is becoming more common, efforts must be made at the time of prior infertility surgery to render the ovaries accessible for ovum recovery. In this report, a simple technique of ovarian suspension in preparation for eventual IVF is described. Seventeen infertile patients undergoing lysis of adhesions underwent ovarian suspension by plication of the suspensory ligament of the ovary with a running suture of 3-0 Prolene, thus apposing the proximal pole of the ovary to the anterior-lateral surface of the uterus. Because the fallopian tube is independent of the sutured structures, the tubal anatomy was undisturbed. Fourteen of these 17 patients have since undergone laparoscopy during IVF. In 12 cases, despite the recurrence of adhesions, the ovaries were accessible for ovum recovery from all aspects. Two patients conceived normally after the lysis of adhesions. This simplified ovarian suspension represents an effective technique for facilitating ovum recovery for IVF which may not disturb fallopian tube ovum pickup or transport mechanisms.