Laparoscopic Treatment of Isolated Salpingeal Torsion in Children: Case Series and a 20-Year Review of the Literature

Abstract

Isolated torsion of the Fallopian tube, without ovarian torsion, is a rare cause of lower abdominal pain. We report our experience with 4 recent cases, along with data from a 20-year review of the pediatric literature. The records of 4 cases encountered during a 3-year period were reviewed. A literature review was completed by searching Medline, Medline in Process, Embase, Current Contents, and BIOSIS from 1990 to 2010. All 4 patients were diagnosed on laparoscopy. Laparoscopic salpingectomy was performed in 3 cases and laparoscopic detorsion in 1. All three resected specimens revealed hemorrhage and gangrene of the salpinx, with an associated cyst in one. The pediatric literature review, including our report, revealed 33 case reports and case series with 45 patients. Fifty-six percent of cases represented primary torsion, and 44% were secondary to underlying tubal pathology. Thirty percent of girls were premenarchal. The mean age at presentation and symptom duration were 13.2±2.1 years and 5.8±12.5 days, respectively. Fever and leukocytosis were present in 27% and 63%, respectively. Ultrasound, computed tomography scan, and magnetic resonance imaging showed a sensitivity of 22% (8/36), 14% (1/7), and 40% (2/5), respectively. A correct preoperative diagnosis was considered in only 13%. Eighty-eight percent of cases were treated by salpingectomy, and 12% were treated by tubal detorsion. Long-term outcomes of detorsion were not reported. Isolated salpingeal torsion in girls is rarely diagnosed preoperatively, regardless of imaging technique. Laparoscopy is the intervention of choice for definitive diagnosis and management. Salpingectomy is the most frequent treatment. Detorsion without resection may be considered for selected cases, but the long-term outcomes of this approach are unknown.