Polycystic ovary syndrome treatment. Image 1 of 5. Endoscope image of a cautery device being used on a polycystic ovary (white). Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or Stein-Leventhal syndrome, causes multiple cysts to form in the ovaries. A cyst is an abnormal fluid-filled cavity. Ovarian cysts can form when follicles fail to ovulate. Symptoms include irregular or absent menstruation. PCOS develops when the ovaries are stimulated to produce excessive amounts of male hormones, particularly testosterone. It is a leading cause of infertility. The cautery device burns (cauterises) portions of the ovary, destroying testosterone producing tissue. In 80% of cases this restores regular ovulation cycles. For a sequence of the surgery see M850/615 to M850/619.