Torsion of the fallopian tube: some considerations on its etiology

Macroscopic and histologic findings in 11 patients operated on for isolated tubal torsion suggested a common pathophysiologic process. During laparotomy, tubal torsion appeared to involve the fimbrial end of the fallopian tube, distal to the site of compression by the sterilization procedure, the ovarian ligament, or a dense adhesion. Histologic study of the tube showed signs of vascular disturbances. Similar signs, although to a lesser extent, were present in the fimbrial end of the contralateral tube in sterilized patients. A causative mechanism resulting in tubal torsion is proposed. The present report suggests that tubal torsion can be a late complication caused by some methods of tubal sterilization.