Three ovaries: Implications of an uncommon entity

Abstract

Introduction: Ovaries are said to be supernumerary when an additional ovary is situated separate from the two other ovaries. Objective: To discuss a case of a supernumerary ovary found incidentally at laparotomy in a young girl with unilateral ovarian torsion and its implications in clinical practice. Background: A supernumerary ovary consists of ovarian tissue completely separated from the eutopic ovary with its own pedicle and blood supply. Differential diagnosis includes accessory ovaries which are located nearby and are connected to the eutopic ovary and its associated blood supply. Design: Case study. Case: A 14-year-old student was referred to our clinic with ruptured ovarian torsion and underwent unilateral oophorectomy for the same. An incidental additional ovary was found on the contralateral side. She was discharged on day 5 of stay and is doing well on follow-up. Conclusion: Supernumerary ovary although rare has significant implications for surgeons and gynecologists alike. Clinical Relevance: Situations in which a supernumerary functional ovary becomes relevant include ovarian torsion or malignancy in adolescents or women with reproductive potential wherein an ovary needs to be sacrificed, as in our case. The additional ovary if located in the pelvis may provide the necessary follicles for future fertility. Care should also be taken in case of ovum acquisition for artificial reproductive techniques.