Outcome Following Ovarian Drilling in Nigerian Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition characterized by endocrinopathies which can lead to infertility. Various modalities of treatment have been employed including ovarian drilling, but the outcome of such ovarian drilling in Nigerian women is not known. Aim: This is a systematic review of the outcome of ovarian drilling on the menstrual pattern and pregnancy rate in Nigerian women. Materials and Methods: Google scholar and PubMed databases were searched for studies that relate to PCOS management using ovarian drilling and other modalities in Nigeria. The citation lists of relevant articles and studies were also searched. Case reports, retrospective studies, and prospective studies were included. Review articles, systematic reviews, and meta‑analysis were excluded. Six studies were found to be suitable and consisted of two case reports and prospective studies each, respectively, and one clinical trial and retrospective study each, respectively. Results: There were a total of 107 patients aged 17–49 years. While all the patients presented with a complaint of abnormal menstruation, 50%–70% complained of inability to conceive. All the patients had used clomiphene citrate as first‑line drug to manage their complaints. Ovarian drilling was carried out using the conventional unipolar diathermy and 4 or more drills per ovary. Following the procedure, 76% resumed normal menstruation and 30% conceived. Conclusion: Reports of ovarian drilling in Nigeria reveal a positive outcome but the number of published studies are few and quality of evidence low. Further well‑designed studies including randomized controlled trials are needed to make definite conclusions.