Status | In progress |
Technology type | Procedure |
Decision | Selected |
Process | IP |
ID number | 1804 |
Description | Ovarian tissue cryopreservation has previously been used in patients who are at risk of a premature menopause and infertility from chemotherapy for cancer treatment. This procedure uses the same technology and surgical approach with the aim of delaying the menopause in otherwise healthy women. The removal of ovarian tissue for preservation is performed before the menopause (ideal age between 20 and 30 years). Initially, reproductive hormones levels and ovarian reserve of the woman are assessed. If these are adequate, laparoscopic surgery is performed under general anaesthesia to remove a third to half of the outer cortex of an ovary. The retrieved ovarian tissue is then prepared as thin slices for cryopreservation, and stored in a storage facility for future use. When the woman enters the menopause, the ovarian tissue is thawed and regrafted under the skin in a heterotopic site (e.g. the forearm or axilla) with the aim of it restoring normal ovarian endocrine function. The transplantation process is reversible and repeatable. The aim is to delay the menopause and its associated symptoms and effects. |
Provisional Schedule
Expected publication | 21 September 2022 |
Email enquiries
- If you have any queries please email ip@nice.org.uk
Timeline
Key events during the development of the guidance:
Date | Update |
---|---|
24 March 2022 - 25 April 2022 | Interventional procedure consultation |
For further information on how we develop interventional procedures guidance, please see our IP manual