The role of wedge resection of the ovary as a cause for mechanical sterility.

The role of wedge resection of the ovary in inducing secondary sterility of a mechanical nature has been evaluated. Two groups of patients were studied. Fifty-seven patients underwent wedge resection of ovary because of symptoms of the Stein-Leventhal syndrome. Of these, eight were found to have extensive peritubal and periovarian adhesions after operation. In the second group, a retrospective study was made. One hundred and ninety-eight women were known to have mechanical sterility. Of these, 28 gave a history of bilateral wedge resection of ovaries because of the Stein-Leventhal syndrome. All pelvic operations for correction of sterility carry a considerable risk of adhesion formation.