comparative study between bilateral ligation of the ovarian and the uterine arteries on the structure and function of the ovary of adult white rabbit: histological and immunohistochemical study

ABSTRACT

Uterine artery embolization is an effective alternative to surgery in fibroids and postpartum hemorrhage aiming to preserve the uterus and fertility. To compare between the effect of bilateral uterine artery ligation and bilateral ovarian artery ligation on the ovarian structure and function in rabbits. Twenty-eight adult female nonpregnant white New Zealand rabbits were divided into four groups [seven rabbits each] group A [control], B [sham], C [subjected to bilateral ovarian artery ligation], and group D [subjected to bilateral uterine artery ligation]. After 2 months, all groups received a single dose of human chorionic gonadotrophin to induce ovulation and were then sacrificed 2 days later. Follicle stimulating hormone [FSH], luteinizing hormone [LH], and 17-beta-estradiol were measured. Ovaries were extracted bilaterally, weighed, and processed for microscopic and immunohistochemical studies. Group C showed a significant increase in FSH and LH, whereas 17-beta-estradiol and ovarian weight were significantly decreased. Moreover, there were only a few peripherally situated atretic follicles with no primary oocytes. Extensive apoptosis affecting the entire ovarian structure was detected. However, group D showed a significant increase in FSH and LH, with a nonsignificant decrease in 17-beta-estradiol and ovarian weight. Ovaries of group D showed delayed ovarian atresia. Granulosa cells showed pyknotic nuclei. Some atretic follicles still contained primary oocyte surrounded by indented zona pellucida. Apoptosis was detected especially in granulosa cells and corpus luteum. Uterine artery shares in the blood supply of the ovary. A countercurrent pathway exists between the ovary and the uterus. Ligation of the uterine artery compared with the ovarian artery ligation induced a delayed atresia in the follicles with preservation of the primary oocytes. Thus, uterine artery embolization could anticipate ovarian failure and early menopause