Semin Reprod Med 2009; 27(6): 465-471
DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1241056
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Fertility Preservation: The Rationale for Cryopreservation of the Whole Ovary

Jason G. Bromer1 , Pasquale Patrizio1
  • 1Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences-Yale Fertility Center, New Haven, Connecticut
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
05 October 2009 (online)

ABSTRACT

Recently, much progress has been made in the area of cryopreservation of ovarian tissue, one of the only options for fertility preservation available to women who require immediate gonadotoxic chemotherapy. Human ovarian cortical tissue strips have been cryopreserved, thawed, and autotransplanted with successful reproductive function. Cryopreservation of ovarian cortical strips, however, is limited by the ischemia that occurs at the time of retransplantation. Thus for patients that desire long-term resumption of endocrine function, cryopreservation of the whole ovary with an intact pedicle and vascular supply may be a better option. This article describes recent advances in whole ovary cryopreservation in both animal and human models, with a focus on surgical technique for removal, choice of cryoprotectants, freezing and thawing protocols, and preliminary results with organ retransplantation. Although no human cases of whole ovary retransplantation after cryopreservation have been performed to date, these preliminary studies have been encouraging, and it is likely that this option for fertility preservation will be a viable treatment option in the future.

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Pasquale PatrizioM.D. M.B.E. 

Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences-Yale Fertility Center

150 Sargent Drive (2nd Floor), New Haven, CT 06511

Email: pasquale.patrizio@yale.edu

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