Client Story
Swift intervention saves fertility and ensures optimal care for an emergency abroad.
Employee reached out to PHM seeking support for their 21-year-old daughter that was hospitalized for severe acute abdominal pain while vacationing in Mexico. Initial testing suggested severe constipation with intestinal blockage, but review by a gynecologist had identified concurrent bilateral ovarian teratomas. The gynecologist was proposing stat surgery to remove the patient’s left ovary due to a concern for ovarian torsion (aka twisting), which a medical emergency, though this was not evident on available imaging. The proposed procedure was an open abdominal surgery with removal of the entire left ovary, risking this young patient’s future fertility.
PHM quickly took action, connecting with the mother by phone for a clinical intake and offering initial guidance on surgical recommendations and further testing. Medical records were translated and reviewed by PHM’s in-house gynecology specialist, who concurred with the concern for torsion and recommended an ultrasound to evaluate further.
PHM suggested surgery with a gynecologic oncologist for superior surgical training and advised asking about ovarian-sparing techniques to preserve the patient’s fertility.
After the PHM-recommended ultrasound confirmed ovarian torsion, PHM provided reassurance that immediate surgical intervention was necessary. PHM also provided post-operative support, advising on the risks of flying and coordinating a medical transport to ensure safe return to the US. PHM further arranged for local follow-up within three days of return home to ensure proper continuity of care and optimal post-operative outcome.
The patient had a successful surgery removing both teratomas while preserving future fertility through ovarian-sparing technique. The family felt confident in their decision to proceed with an emergency surgery in Mexico through PHM treatment decision support and advocacy for an ultrasound evaluation. PHM saved the employee 8+ hours of clinical coordination for MediVac services home, allowing them to focus on their daughter’s health and recovery . Anxiety around continuity of care and follow-up was alleviated through post-operative support. PHM delivered quick, high-touch clinical support and expert guidance during an emergency abroad, optimizing surgical outcomes while alleviating anxiety.
Private Health Management’s Personal Care Team helps you navigate the toughest health conditions confidently. Learn more about our expert guidance of ovarian cancer here.
Discover our Why Wall
