A prospective study comparing unilateral and bilateral laparoscopic ovarian diathermy in women with the polycystic ovary syndrome.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the efficacy of unilateral laparoscopic ovarian diathermy in the induction of ovulation in anti-estrogen-resistant polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).


METHODS
A prospective randomized study was performed to compare unilateral with bilateral ovarian diathermy.


METHODS
Specialist Reproductive Endocrine Unit.


METHODS
Ten patients with anti-estrogen-resistant PCOS.


METHODS
Randomization to unilateral (4 patients) or bilateral laparoscopic ovarian diathermy (6 patients).


METHODS
Rate and side of ovulation and change in endocrine profiles after ovarian diathermy.


RESULTS
Unilateral ovarian diathermy resulted in ovulation from both ovaries. Fifty percent of the patients responded to diathermy and those who responded had a significantly greater fall in serum LH concentrations than those who failed to respond.


CONCLUSIONS
The mechanism of action of laparoscopic ovarian diathermy is via a correction of disturbed ovarian-pituitary feedback. Hypersecretion of LH appears to be the most significant endocrine disturbance in these patients.
Balen
A H
AH
Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University College London, United Kingdom.
Jacobs
H S
HS
D000328:Adult; D004351:Drug Resistance; D004564:Electrocoagulation; D004967:Estrogens; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007986:Luteinizing Hormone / Q000097:blood; D010053:Ovary / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D010062:Ovulation Induction; D011085:Polycystic Ovary Syndrome / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D011247:Pregnancy; D011446:Prospective Studies
D004967:Estrogens; D007986:Luteinizing Hormone