Laparoscopic Treatment of Ovarian Vein Syndrome

BACKGROUND Ovarian vein syndrome is a rare cause of teral obstruction. In this report, we describe an unusual presentation of the syndrome successfully treated with laparoscopic techniques. METHODS The patient presented with a 12-month history of right flank pain and a right abdominal mass. The preoperative evaluation revealed renal malrotation, hydronephrosis, decreased renal function, and presumed ureteropelvic junction obstruction. RESULTS By using a transperitoneal laparoscopic approach, an enlarged ovarian vein was identified as the cause of the ureteral obstruction. The ovarian vein was divided with a laparoscopic stapler. The patient's postoperative course was unremarkable, and she was discharged from the hospital on the second postoperative day. At 3-months follow-up, the patient was completely asymptomatic without evidence of obstruction. DISCUSSION Ovarian vein syndrome remains a rare diagnosis of exclusion. A careful preoperative evaluation is required to exclude other causes of ureteral obstruction. By using a laparoscopic approach, the ureter and obstructing vessel were readily identified to effectively treat the patient. With the minimally invasive approach, postoperative recovery and patient quality of life were improved.