Objective: To evaluate the direct ovarian contribution to ascites formation in the ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) in a rabbit model.
Design: Prospective experimental study.
Setting: Research center of a university teaching hospital.
Participants: New Zealand White rabbits.
Interventions: Both ovaries of the rabbits in the experimental group were enclosed within a pouch developed from the surrounding peritoneum and mesosalpinx by microsurgery. Animals in the control group did not undergo any surgical intervention. Ovarian hyperstimulation was induced by alternate day equine chorionic gonadotropin and intermittent human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG).
Main outcome measures: Degree of ascites formation and the morphological and endocrinologic signs of ovarian hyperstimulation.
Results: The serial plasma estradiol and progesterone levels, ovarian weights, and ascites response were not statistically different between the two groups.
Conclusions: Isolation of both ovaries from the peritoneal cavity does not prevent ascites formation in the OHSS. Increased transudation across extraovarian serosal surfaces contributes to ascites formation in OHSS.