Name of the Condition

• Torsion of left ovary and ovarian pedicle; also referred to as ovarian torsion.

Summary

• Ovarian torsion occurs when an ovary rotates around the ligaments that hold it in place, potentially reducing or cutting off its blood supply. It is a painful and serious condition requiring prompt medical attention.

Causes

• The condition can be caused by an ovarian cyst or mass that adds weight to the ovary, making it prone to twisting, or by anatomical variations that increase mobility of the ovary.

Risk Factors

• Women of reproductive age, particularly those undergoing fertility treatments, pregnant women, or those with a history of ovarian cysts or prior torsion.

Symptoms

• Sudden, severe pelvic pain, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes fever. Pain is usually localized to one side, in this case, the left side.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis typically involves a pelvic examination, ultrasound imaging, and sometimes Doppler ultrasound to assess blood flow to the ovary.

Treatment Options

• Treatment usually requires surgery to untwist the ovary and, if necessary, remove any cyst or mass responsible. In severe cases, if the ovary is not viable, it may need to be removed (oophorectomy).

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• If treated quickly, the prognosis is generally good with preservation of the ovary. Regular follow-up may be needed to monitor the health of the remaining ovarian tissue or to manage any underlying conditions like cysts.

Complications

• If not promptly treated, torsion can lead to loss of the ovary, infection, or further complications related to infarction when the blood supply is cut off for too long.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Regular pelvic exams and monitoring of known ovarian cysts can help with detection. Awareness of symptoms is crucial for early intervention.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Immediate medical attention is needed for sudden, severe pelvic pain, especially if accompanied by nausea or vomiting.

Additional Resources

• The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)
• The Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance (OCRA)

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate documentation of the side of torsion (left in this case) to correctly code N83.512.
• Be aware of related conditions like cysts or masses that might be documented separately but influence the primary condition.