Detailed Morphological Analysis of Cryoinjury in Human Ovarian Tissue Following Vitrification or Slow Freezing.

Cryopreservation of human ovarian tissue represents a key procedure for fertility preservation. The two most widely used cryopreservation methods for human ovarian cortex samples are slow freezing\thawing (SF\T) and vitrification\warming (V\W). The aim of the present study was to analyze the effects of SF\T and V\W using a metal chamber, on specific follicle and oocyte structures and on the stromal organization post-cryopreservation. We did histology analysis of SF\T and V\W ovarian fragments from nine healthy subjects. Overall results showed that cryopreserved tissues presented significant rates of damage in primordial and primary follicles. Altered nuclear structure of primordial follicles and cell detachment from primordial and primary follicles were the main injuries observed after V/W and SF/T. The stromal components were similarly well preserved after cryopreservation. We conclude that both cryopreservation methods may be used for fertility preservation purposes with similar outcomes in terms of follicular and stromal integrity. Detachment of follicle cells from basal membrane represents an important cryoinjury that deserves further investigation.

Electrosurgical Injuries in Gynecologic Laparoscopy

We reviewed the 396 operative laparoscopies performed from March 1994 to March 1996 to determine the numbers and causes of electrical injuries. Electrical injuries were reported in four (1.01%) patients. Capacitive coupling induced by a laparoscope inserted through a conductive cannula sleeve with a nonconductive collar caused two bowel injuries that required laparotomy. Insulation failure of an electric cable resulted in a skin burn. A small surface contact area of a cannula sleeve being pulled out of the abdominal wall led to a surface burn in the abdominal wall. Lack of knowledge and insufficient attention on the part of laparoscopic surgeons and operating room personnel may result in electrosurgical accidents.