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Łubik-Lejawka D, Gabriel I, Marzec A, Olejek A. Oncofertility as an Essential Part of Comprehensive Cancer Treatment in Patients of Reproductive Age, Adolescents and Children. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1858. [PMID: 38791937 PMCID: PMC11119835 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16101858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The number of children, adolescents and young adults diagnosed with cancer has been rising recently. Various oncological treatments have a detrimental effect on female fertility, and childbearing becomes a major issue during surveillance after recovery. This review discusses the impact of oncological treatments on the ovarian reserve with a thorough explanation of oncologic treatments' effects and modes of oncofertility procedures. The aim of this review is to help clinicians in making an informed decision about post-treatment fertility in their patients. Ultimately, it may lead to improved overall long-term outcomes among young populations suffering from cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Anita Olejek
- Department of Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Oncological Gynaecology in Bytom, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland; (D.Ł.-L.); (I.G.); (A.M.)
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2
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Advances in fertility-preservation surgery: navigating new frontiers. Fertil Steril 2019; 112:438-445. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2019.06.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2019] [Revised: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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3
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Rubinsak LA, Christianson MS, Akers A, Carter J, Kaunitz AM, Temkin SM. Reproductive health care across the lifecourse of the female cancer patient. Support Care Cancer 2018; 27:23-32. [DOI: 10.1007/s00520-018-4360-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2018] [Accepted: 07/17/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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von Wolff M, Germeyer A, Liebenthron J, Korell M, Nawroth F. Practical recommendations for fertility preservation in women by the FertiPROTEKT network. Part II: fertility preservation techniques. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2017; 297:257-267. [PMID: 29181578 PMCID: PMC5762782 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-017-4595-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2017] [Accepted: 11/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Purpose In addition to guidelines focusing on scientific evidence, practical recommendations on fertility preservation are also needed. Methods A selective literature search was performed based on the clinical and scientific experience of the authors. This article (Part II) focuses on fertility preservation techniques. Part I, also published in this journal, provides information on disease prognosis, disease-specific therapy, and risks for loss of fertility. Results Ovarian stimulation including double stimulation and freezing of oocytes is the best-established therapy providing live birth chances in women < 35 years with high ovarian reserve of around 30–40%. Ovarian tissue freezing is especially useful in young women with good ovarian, if spontaneous conception is favoured and if < 1 week until chemotherapy is provided. Data on success rates are still limited, but this further evolving technique will possibly reach similar success rates as ovarian stimulation. GnRH agonists seem to reduce the risk of premature ovarian failure up to 50%; however, the effect is possibly not long-lasting. Ovarian transposition can easily be combined with freezing of ovarian tissue and is the preferred technique before pelvic radiotherapy. Other techniques, such as in vitro maturation, are limited to women with high ovarian reserve and remain less effective. In addition, procedures such as in vitro growth of follicles, etc. are still experimental. Conclusions Fertility preservation in women provides realistic chances of becoming pregnant. The choice of technique needs to be based on the time required, the woman’s age, its risks and efficacy, and the individual preference of the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael von Wolff
- Division of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University of Berne, Berne, Switzerland.
- Division of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Women's hospital, Inselspital Bern, Effingerstrasse 102, 3010, Bern, Switzerland.
| | - A Germeyer
- Department of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, Medical University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - J Liebenthron
- Department of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - M Korell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Johanna Etienne Hospital of Neuss, Neuss, Germany
| | - F Nawroth
- Centre for Infertility, Prenatal Medicine, Endocrinology and Osteology, Amedes Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
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Dittrich R, Lotz L, Hoffmann I, Beckmann MW. Ovartransposition vor Radiatio und Ovartransplantation nach Kryokonservierung. GYNAKOLOGISCHE ENDOKRINOLOGIE 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s10304-017-0140-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Moawad NS, Santamaria E, Rhoton-Vlasak A, Lightsey JL. Laparoscopic Ovarian Transposition Before Pelvic Cancer Treatment: Ovarian Function and Fertility Preservation. J Minim Invasive Gynecol 2017; 24:28-35. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmig.2016.08.831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2016] [Revised: 08/24/2016] [Accepted: 08/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Angarita AM, Johnson CA, Fader AN, Christianson MS. Fertility Preservation: A Key Survivorship Issue for Young Women with Cancer. Front Oncol 2016; 6:102. [PMID: 27200291 PMCID: PMC4843761 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2016.00102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2015] [Accepted: 04/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Fertility preservation in the young cancer survivor is recognized as a key survivorship issue by the American Society of Clinical Oncology and the American Society of Reproductive Medicine. Thus, health-care providers should inform women about the effects of cancer therapy on fertility and should discuss the different fertility preservation options available. It is also recommended to refer women expeditiously to a fertility specialist in order to improve counseling. Women’s age, diagnosis, presence of male partner, time available, and preferences regarding use of donor sperm influence the selection of the appropriate fertility preservation option. Embryo and oocyte cryopreservation are the standard techniques used while ovarian tissue cryopreservation is new, yet promising. Despite the importance of fertility preservation for cancer survivors’ quality of life, there are still communication and financial barriers faced by women who wish to pursue fertility preservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Milena Angarita
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Kelly Gynecologic Oncology Service, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore, MD , USA
| | - Cynae A Johnson
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Kelly Gynecologic Oncology Service, Johns Hopkins Hospital , Baltimore, MD , USA
| | - Amanda Nickles Fader
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Kelly Gynecologic Oncology Service, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore, MD , USA
| | - Mindy S Christianson
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore, MD , USA
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Chuai Y, Xu X, Wang A. Preservation of fertility in females treated for cancer. Int J Biol Sci 2012; 8:1005-12. [PMID: 22904668 PMCID: PMC3421231 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.4800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2012] [Accepted: 07/29/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Advancements of diagnosis and treatment have substantially improved cancer survival rates in the last few decades. The increasing number of survivors focuses attention on long-term effects caused by cancer treatment and its impact on quality of life. Ovarian failure is one of the major sequelae of cytotoxic chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy in female children and reproductive-age women. Oncologists should address the patients about fertility preservation options before therapy. Embryo cryopreservation is the only well-established method for females in preserving fertility; however other strategies including ovarian suppression, ovarian transposition and cryopreservation of oocytes and ovarian tissue are still experimental. Patients need advice and to know which are the most practical options for them. This article reviews the available fertility preservation methods in women, and the related issues including normal physiology of the ovary, effect of anticancer therapy on fertility, role of the oncologist and ethics. We performed a MEDLINE search from 1971 to 2011 in a similar way as Jensen et al. 2011, using the following MeSH terms: antineoplastic agents; ovarian failure; premature; infertility, female; fertility preservation; child and cancer; reproductive technologies, assisted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunhai Chuai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Navy General Hospital, Beijing, China
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Needle oophoropexy: a new simple technique for ovarian transposition prior to pelvic irradiation. Surg Endosc 2011; 25:2241-6. [PMID: 21298536 DOI: 10.1007/s00464-010-1541-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2010] [Accepted: 11/16/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Irradiation of the pelvis in the treatment of cancers will result in ovarian failure unless the ovaries are shielded adequately. To protect the ovaries, an oophoropexy may be performed. Our aim was to evaluate the feasibility, morbidity, and efficacy of laparoscopic ovarian transposition using a simple percutaneous needle technique. METHODS Fifteen patients (ten with rectal cancer and five with Hodgkin's disease) underwent the new laparoscopic oophoropexy technique. Laparoscopic releasing of the ovary was performed by cutting the utero-ovarian ligament followed by placing the ovaries on the anterior abdominal wall. A percutaneous straight needle was introduced through a 2-mm skin incision at the site of fixation. Repositioning of the ovaries was done on an outpatient basis without the need for readmission to the operating theatre. RESULTS The technique was effective, reliable, and simple with no morbidities. Repositioning was performed simply in the outpatient clinic. At follow-up, 11 patients had evidence of ovarian function. CONCLUSION Percutaneous needle transposition of the ovaries is a simple, effective, reliable, and easy-to-perform technique. It has short learning curve and can be done by less experienced laparoscopic surgeons.
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Laparoscopic ovarian transposition with potential preservation of natural fertility. J Minim Invasive Gynecol 2010; 17:411-2. [PMID: 20621003 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmig.2009.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2009] [Revised: 06/27/2009] [Accepted: 07/01/2009] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Paradisi R, Fabbri R, Magnani V, Battaglia C, Venturoli S. A new simple technique of laparoscopic temporary ovarian suspension in addition to ovarian cryopreservation for women prior to posterior pelvic radiation. Gynecol Oncol 2010; 117:385-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2010.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2009] [Revised: 01/15/2010] [Accepted: 01/18/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Preservation of Ovarian Function in Young Woman With Hodgkin Disease by Laparoscopic Medial Transposition Before Abdominal Irradiation. Surg Laparosc Endosc Percutan Tech 2008; 18:423-5. [DOI: 10.1097/sle.0b013e3181730893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Cowles RA, Gewanter RM, Kandel JJ. Ovarian repositioning in pediatric cancer patients: Flexible techniques accommodate pelvic radiation fields. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2007; 49:339-41. [PMID: 16261563 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.20652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Treatments for childhood cancer and consequent long-term survival rates continue to improve. As the success of these therapies advances, premature ovarian failure and sterility have become an increasingly evident long-term morbidity. Abdominal and pelvic radiation have been specifically shown to induce early menopause and decreased fertility. In order to minimize radiation injury, we utilized novel techniques to reposition ovaries in two girls with pelvic tumors prior to initiation of pelvic radiation. One girl with a sacral Ewing sarcoma underwent laparoscopic anterior suspension of the ovaries, using a simple and easily reversible technique. The second patient, who underwent hysterectomy for a recurrent uterine rhabdomyosarcoma, underwent widely lateral and cephalad repositioning of the ovaries. Both procedures were well tolerated, with no significant morbidity. In both cases the ovaries were moved well beyond the planned radiation field. We propose that open or laparoscopic ovarian repositioning in children is a simple, flexible, and reversible option to reduce radiation injury to the ovaries in pediatric cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert A Cowles
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital of New York-Presbyterian and Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY 10023, USA.
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Mitchell JD, Hitchen C, Vlachaki MT. Role of Ovarian Transposition Based on the Dosimetric Effects of Craniospinal Irradiation on the Ovaries: A Case Report. Med Dosim 2007; 32:204-10. [PMID: 17707201 DOI: 10.1016/j.meddos.2007.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2007] [Accepted: 02/05/2007] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we present a case of laparoscopic ovarian transposition to preserve ovarian function in an adult female patient treated with craniospinal irradiation for standard risk medulloblastoma. The prescribed dose to the craniospinal axis was 2340 cGy at 180 cGy per fraction and was delivered with 6-MV photons. Before ovarian transposition, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the pelvis was obtained for localization of the ovaries and was registered with the planning computed tomography (CT) scan. Surgical clips allowed for CT localization of the ovaries after transposition. As a result of ovarian transposition, mean and maximum radiation doses decreased from 983 to 68 cGy and 1624 to 84 cGy for the left ovary and from 166 to 87 cGy and 723 to 103 cGy for the right ovary, respectively. Review of the literature indicates that such radiation doses are below the threshold that causes ovarian dysfunction and infertility. We conclude that ovarian localization with an MRI of the pelvis can be offered to females undergoing craniospinal irradiation. Transposition of the ovaries provides an option to preserve ovarian function in cases where the ovaries would otherwise be included within the radiation field.
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Davis M. Fertility Considerations for Female Adoelscent and Young Adult Patients Following Cancer Therapy: A Guide for Counseling Patients and Their Families. Clin J Oncol Nurs 2007; 10:213-9. [PMID: 16708704 DOI: 10.1188/06.cjon.213-219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
During the past 20 years, an increase in survival among pediatric patients with cancer has occurred, and a need exists to be proactive prior to cancer therapy regarding issues related to fertility. Chemotherapy and radiation can cause a number of deleterious side effects to female patients, including early menopause and its associated side effects of osteoporosis and heart disease as well as the inability to carry a pregnancy to term or conceive a child. Many drugs and fields of radiotherapy are associated with an increased incidence of female reproductive complications. Options are available for the preservation of female fertility, but many are experimental. Of highest importance is the need to counsel female adolescents and young adults before beginning induction chemotherapy or radiation. Nurses play a large part in the information about future fertility that female patients receive before the initiation of cancer therapy. After reading this article, nurses will have a better understanding of the impact of cancer therapy on the female reproductive system and be more comfortable discussing the topic with their patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Davis
- Kaiser Permanente Oakland Medical Center, California, USA.
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Lee SJ, Schover LR, Partridge AH, Patrizio P, Wallace WH, Hagerty K, Beck LN, Brennan LV, Oktay K. American Society of Clinical Oncology recommendations on fertility preservation in cancer patients. J Clin Oncol 2006; 24:2917-31. [PMID: 16651642 DOI: 10.1200/jco.2006.06.5888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1307] [Impact Index Per Article: 72.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To develop guidance to practicing oncologists about available fertility preservation methods and related issues in people treated for cancer. METHODS An expert panel and a writing committee were formed. The questions to be addressed by the guideline were determined, and a systematic review of the literature from 1987 to 2005 was performed, and included a search of online databases and consultation with content experts. RESULTS The literature review found many cohort studies, case series, and case reports, but relatively few randomized or definitive trials examining the success and impact of fertility preservation methods in people with cancer. Fertility preservation methods are used infrequently in people with cancer. RECOMMENDATIONS As part of education and informed consent before cancer therapy, oncologists should address the possibility of infertility with patients treated during their reproductive years and be prepared to discuss possible fertility preservation options or refer appropriate and interested patients to reproductive specialists. Clinician judgment should be employed in the timing of raising this issue, but discussion at the earliest possible opportunity is encouraged. Sperm and embryo cryopreservation are considered standard practice and are widely available; other available fertility preservation methods should be considered investigational and be performed in centers with the necessary expertise. CONCLUSION Fertility preservation is often possible in people undergoing treatment for cancer. To preserve the full range of options, fertility preservation approaches should be considered as early as possible during treatment planning.
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Abstract
Gynecologic malignancies are most often diagnosed in postmenopausal women, but these malignancies also arise in premenopausal women, in whom issues of fertility can be a major concern. An increasing number of women are delaying childbearing. This has led to a significant increase in the number of women diagnosed with a gynecologic malignancy before desired completion of childbearing. Many of the standard treatments for these malignancies result in permanent sterility; however, there are now options for select young women who desire to preserve fertility. Patients should be told that data on fertility-sparing procedures are limited and that many of these options are of an experimental, nonstandard nature. The care of these patients is challenging and complex and requires a multidisciplinary approach, which should include gynecologic oncologists, reproductive endocrinologists, and perinatologists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario M Leitao
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, USA
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Nagao S, Fujiwara K, Ishikawa H, Oda T, Tanaka K, Aotani E, Kohno I. Hormonal function after ovarian transposition to the abdominal subcutaneous fat tissue. Int J Gynecol Cancer 2006; 16:121-4. [PMID: 16445621 DOI: 10.1111/j.1525-1438.2006.00280.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
We previously reported a new technique for ovarian transposition to the abdominal subcutaneous fat tissue (OTAFT) following hysterectomy. The purpose of this study is to assess the hormonal function after OTAFT. From 1993 to 2000, OTAFT was performed in 27 patients (group A). Forty-two women underwent hysterectomy and retained ovaries without transposition (group B). In 19 cases, bilateral oophorectomy with hysterectomy was performed, and they received a hormone replacement therapy (HRT) (group C). Serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) level of patients was monitored every 2-12 months, and the time of menopause (defined as FSH >40 mIU/mL two times consecutively) was determined in groups A and B. After a median follow-up of 65 months, cumulative ovarian survival did not show significant difference between group A and group B (HR = 0.52, 95% CI = 0.17-1.16; P= 0.10). In patients who were 40 years old or younger, ovarian function declined significantly in group A compared to group B (HR = 0.29, 95% CI = 0.02-0.91; P= 0.04). However, FSH level of postmenopausal patients in group A was not different from FSH level of patients in group C, but FSH level of postmenopausal patients in group B was significantly higher than FSH level of patients in group C (P= 0.002). Although the procedure of OTAFT may somewhat affect the ovarian function, the transposed ovary in postmenopausal women presumably still secrete a small amount of estrogen which is equivalent to an estrogen level by HRT.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Nagao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kawasaki Medical School, 577 Matsushima, Kurashiki-City 701-0192, Japan
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