Uterine arteriovenous malformations: primary treatment with therapeutic embolization

Uterine venous malformations in the puerperium: 2 Atypical cases and literature review

Uterine arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) is a rare but high-risk cause of uterine bleeding. The clinical management of this condition is challenging, as the ultrasound picture can sometimes be unambiguously interpreted. Moreover, in the puerperium in which acquired AVMs are most frequently formed, it is necessary to discuss the correct management in a multidisciplinary and personalized manner. We present two cases of AVMs developing in the puerperium, both with a vaginal delivery and spontaneous and complete secondment. The symptom of onset was an episode of bright red blood loss in the puerperium, on the 14th and 21st postpartum days, respectively. Transvaginal ultrasound showed a hypervascularized lesion in the myometrium with turbulent vascular flow, confirmed by transabdominal ultrasound and angiography. To date, there are no guidelines on the management of MAVs. In our cases we opted for a conservative approach, in order to preserve the fertility of the patient. These experiences reported have the purpose of enriching a literature still sparse on the subject and in the future to be able to represent a fulcrum for official recommendations.

Efficacy of Embolization in Acquired Uterine Vascular Malformations: An Experience in Tertiary Care Centre in India

OBJECTIVE

 To determine the efficacy of Uterine Artery Embolization in patients with bleeding acquired uterine arteriovenous malformations (AVMs).

METHODS

 A prospective review of all patients who underwent Uterine Artery Embolization at our institution between July 2015 and April 2022 was performed. 225 patients were diagnosed with a uterine vascular malformation on doppler and corresponding MRI imaging. All patients underwent transcatheter embolization of the uterine arteries. Embolic agents in the 375 procedures included Histoacryl glue only (n = 326), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) particles and Histoacryl glue (n = 29), PVA particles (n = 5), Gelfoam (n = 5), coils (n = 4), PVA particles and coils (n = 3), Histoacryl glue and Gelfoam (n = 2), and Histoacryl glue and coils (n = 1).

RESULTS

 A total of 375 embolization procedures were performed in 225 patients. 90 patients required repeat embolization for recurrence of bleeding. The technical success rate of embolization was 100%. The clinical success rate was 92%: bleeding was controlled in 222 of 225 patients and three patients underwent a hysterectomy. 60 of the 225 patients had uneventful intrauterine pregnancies carried to term. The 210 patients who underwent successful embolization had no recurrence of bleeding at a median follow-up of 53 months (range, 5-122 months) after treatment. 15 patients were eventually lost to follow-up. One minor complication (0.4%) of non-flow-limiting dissection of the internal iliac artery occurred.

CONCLUSION

 Uterine Artery Embolization is a safe, effective, minimally invasive method to treat uterine AVMs with long-term efficacy, which can provide the preservation of fertility.

Acquired Uterine Vascular Anomaly: Experience from a tertiary care centre in Pakistan

Objectives

This study aimed to retrospectively review imaging findings and the outcomes of uterine artery embolisation (UAE) in symptomatic uterine vascular anomalies (UVA).

Methods

This study included a total of 15 patients with acquired UVA admitted to the Aga Khan University Hospital in Karachi, Pakistan, from 2010 to 2020. These patients were evaluated using ultrasound, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, either alone or in combination. All patients had a history of dilatation and curettage or uterine instrumentation and underwent angiography and embolisation of the uterine arteries. The primary outcome post embolisation was assessed clinically and/or in combination with ultrasound. Post-procedure pregnancies were also recorded.

Results

Non-invasive imaging was abnormal in all patients; however, this pre-intervention imaging was unable to accurately classify the type of vascular anomaly, except in the case of a pseudoaneurysm. Conventional angiography showed uterine artery hyperaemia in six patients, arteriovenous malformation in seven patients and pseudoaneurysm in two patients. The technical success rate was 100% and no repeat embolisation was needed. The follow-up ultrasound in 12 patients revealed a resolution of the abnormal findings, while the remaining three were found to be normal on clinical follow-up. Seven patients (46.7%) had a normal pregnancy 15.7 months after the procedure (range: 4-28 months).

Conclusions

UAE is a safe and effective management option for intractable severe bleeding in patients with UVA post instrumentation and it was found that the procedure does not impair future pregnancy.

A new fertility-preserving treatment modality for life-threatening bleeding caused by acquired uterine arteriovenous malformation (AVM): Combination laparoscopic ligation of uterine arteries and AVM suture

OBJECTIVE

Symptomatic Uterine arteriovenous malformation (AVM) can result in sudden and massive vaginal bleeding that can be life-threatening. We report a new fertility-preserving treatment modality for disastrous bleeding caused by acquired uterine AVM: Combination laparoscopic ligation of uterine arteries and AVM suture.

CASE REPORT

A 39-year-old female received Dilatation and Curettage due to missed abortion. However, she experienced heavy vaginal bleeding after surgery. Uterine arteriovenous malformation (AVM) was diagnosed by color Doppler ultrasonography, hysteroscopy, and angiography. She was successfully treated using laparoscopy bilateral uterine arteries ligation followed by application of uterine AVM suture with absorbable barbed wound closure device. After the laparoscopic surgery, vaginal bleeding stopped immediately. Complete regression of the AVM lesion on sonography was noted 8 months after laparoscopic surgery. Besides, this patient had normal menstruation after the operation.

CONCLUSION

This case report describes for the first time a successful combination of bilateral uterine artery ligation and AVM suture to treat a patient with uterine arteriovenous malformation. We demonstrated the efficacy and safety of this fertility preserving method.

Imaging spectrum of acquired uterine vascular abnormalities with angiographic correlates, a pictorial review

Background

Acquired uterine arterial anomalies, including uterine artery pseudoaneurysms (UAP), arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) and arteriovenous fistulae (AFVs), are rare presenting causes of abnormal uterine bleeding. Timely diagnosis is essential for safe and effective treatment, avoiding life-threatening haemorrhage resulting from erroneous uterine curettage due to misdiagnosing these as other more common differentials.

Main text

This pictorial review discusses the ultrasound (USG), CT and MRI features of various acquired uterine vascular abnormalities with angiographic correlates.

Conclusion

Acquired uterine arteriovenous injuries are a fundamental cause of dysfunctional intractable bleeding recalcitrant to traditional conservative management. Endovascular transcatheter uterine artery embolisation is an increasingly popular and safe mode of treatment, especially in young patients desiring to have the option of future pregnancies, with lesser morbidity and in-hospital stay duration.

Transcatheter Artery Embolization for Postoperative Haemorrhage after Arterio-Venous Malformation - Safer Option

Summary. Introduction:

Hemorrhage is one of the commonest and dreaded complications especially with pelvic surgeries. Gestational trophoblastic neoplasias (GTN) are notorious for their propensity to bleed torrentially and metastasis to vital organs. GTN is associated with an arterio-venous malformation (AVM) about 10-15% of the time, which can lead to bleeding after surgery or after complete remission. After the failure of conventional management with chemotherapy or surgery one is compelled to take another modality of management. One of such methods is the use of transcatheter artery embolization in cases of GTN or post-hysterectomy cases of GTN. Transcatheter arteryembolization (TAE) was effective in controlling bleeding due to arterio-venous malformation in 96% of cases.

Case:

46 years P2L2A5 (para 2, living issue 2, abortion 5) post-hysterectomy patient presented with bleeding from the vagina after surgery. Twice she underwent vaginal vault repair after hysterectomy but failed. Ultrasonography (USG) showed arterio-venous malformation (AVM); angiography revealed massive extravasation from (left internal iliac artery and abnormal vascularity from the right internal iliac. She was taken up for bilateral internal iliac arteries embolization but again had a heavy bout of bleeding after one week. CT scan confirmed a residual lesion and she underwent a repeat embolization after which the bleeding stopped. Serum BHCG was advised during workup and it was 1997 IU/ml. A diagnosis of GTN was confirmed. The patient was discharged after two cycles of chemotherapy with advice to review for the third one on an outpatient department basis.

Conclusion:

We concluded that TAE is an effective and safer alternative to surgery in postoperative bleeding from AV malformation in the case of GTN. It can be repeated and should be made to more liberal use in emergency settings.

Subinvolution of the placental site as the cause of hysterectomy in young woman

Subinvolution of placental sites (SPSs) is a rare but severe cause of secondary postpartum haemorrhage (PPH). SPS is characterised by the abnormal persistence of large, dilated, superficially modified spiral arteries in the absence of retained products of conception. It is an important cause of morbidity and mortality of young women. In this study, we present a case of secondary PPH in a young woman after uncomplicated caesarean delivery who was deemed clinically unstable, and finally, underwent emergent total abdominal hysterectomy. We reviewed the literature with an emphasis on the pathophysiology of this situation. Treatment of patients with SPS includes conservative medical therapy, hysterectomy and fertility-sparing percutaneous embolotherapy.

A Case Series on Uterine Arteriovenous Malformations: A Life-Threatening Emergency in Young Women

Uterine arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is a rare condition, with few cases reported in the literature. Despite being rare, it is a potentially life-threatening condition in women of child-bearing age. It should be considered in the differential diagnosis of prolonged or irregular vaginal bleeding, which, otherwise, can lead to critical complications ending up in severe morbidity and mortality. This case series describes four cases of young Asian women aged between 33 and 38 years who presented with irregular vaginal bleeding. Trans-abdominal ultrasound of the pelvis showed increased vascularity with multi-directional blood flow in the uterus. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) confirmed an arteriovenous malformation in all cases. All cases remained stable through the diagnostic journey. Embolization of the arteriovenous malformation was performed successfully in three cases and one case was managed conservatively on hormones. Later, two of them conceived within a year and had live births at term. The aim of reporting these cases is to share the common presentation of this condition and our experience in making the diagnosis and treatment of such patients. Although a few cases are reported world over, none was reported earlier from Pakistani Asian women.

Rare occurrence of uterine arteriovenous malformation clinically mimicking a malignant growth: A critical reminder for pathologists

Arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is a rare lesion in the uterus, which can lead to abnormal uterine bleeding. While AVM has been described in other organs in the literature, there is a paucity of pathology reports of the AVM in uterus. On gross examination, the uterus was markedly enlarged and partly distorted with a pedunculated solid mass, which on the cut surface showed multiple well-circumscribed hemorrhagic cysts ranging from 0.1 to 4.0 cm in size. Microscopically, they were malformed dilated vascular structures containing organized thrombi. We present this case of uterine AVM with gross and microscopic findings, which can serve as a crucial reminder for pathologists to keep in the differential diagnoses as a potential cause of abnormal uterine bleeding.

Uterine arteriovenous malformation with positive serum beta-human chorionic gonadotropin: Embolization of both uterine arteries and extra-uterine feeding arteries

The incidence of uterine arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is rare. However, it is clinically significant in that it can cause life-threatening vaginal bleeding. We report a case of a large uterine AVM with positive serum beta-human chorionic gonadotropin. A presumptive diagnosis was made; a uterine AVM accompanied by, early pregnancy or retained product of conception. Because this uterine AVM was extensive, transcatheter arterial embolization of both uterine arteries and extra-uterine feeding arteries was performed. Three months after undergoing transcatheter arterial embolization, complete resolution of the uterine AVM was confirmed without major complication.

Congenital vascular malformations

Congenital vascular anomalies may occur at any anatomical region, but genital vascular anomalies in women are rare findings. Therefore the majority of the problems in pregnancy are due to secondary complications of vascular anomalies (especially in syndromes). Proper knowledge of these disorders and the necessities in diagnosis and management is essential.

Uterine Arteriovenous Malformation: Case Series and Literature Review

BACKGROUND

Uterine AV malformation is a rare cause of torrential post-abortal hemorrhage, which can present with varying grades of severity. Diagnosis requires a high degree of suspicion and is done with ultrasound and Doppler.

CASE SERIES

In our institution, during the period 2008-2013, five cases of symptomatic uterine AVMs have been reported. All of them were in the reproductive age group (22-36 years), presenting with a history of miscarriage or termination of pregnancy for which curettage was done. The presentation was with recurrent bouts of torrential bleeding, some triggered by second curettage, and not controllable with regular measures. Diagnosis was by ultrasound-gray scale, color Doppler, and spectral Doppler. The time interval between the onset of symptoms and the primary curettage was 8-89 days; four patients underwent selective arterial embolization, and one patient opted for hysterectomy. On follow-up, all the four patients are presently free of symptoms; two of them conceived within 2 years of the procedure and carried the pregnancy to term-one resulting in a live-birth and the other intrauterine death.

CONCLUSION

Uterine AV malformation should be thought of as a differential diagnosis in all cases presenting with bleeding after miscarriage or curettage, since diagnosis is simple and treatment by selective arterial embolization saves morbidity of surgery and anesthesia, and more importantly reduces hospital stay and the absence from work.

Ultrasound diagnosis and management of acquired uterine enhanced myometrial vascularity/arteriovenous malformations

BACKGROUND

Arteriovenous malformation is a short circuit between an organ's arterial and venous circulation. Arteriovenous malformations are classified as congenital and acquired. In the uterus, they may appear after curettage, cesarean delivery, and myomectomy among others. Their clinical feature is usually vaginal bleeding, which may be severe, if curettage is performed in unrecognized cases. Sonographically on 2-dimensional grayscale ultrasound scanning, the pathologic evidence appears as irregular, anechoic, tortuous, tubular structures that show evidence of increased vascularity when color Doppler is applied. Most of the time they resolve spontaneously; however, if left untreated, they may require involved treatments such as uterine artery embolization or hysterectomy. In the past, uterine artery angiography was the gold standard for the diagnosis; however, ultrasound scanning has diagnosed successfully and helped in the clinical management. Recently, arteriovenous malformations have been referred to as enhanced myometrial vascularities.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of transvaginal ultrasound scanning in the diagnosis and treatment of acquired enhanced myometrial vascularity/arteriovenous malformations to outline the natural history of conservatively followed vs treated lesions.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study to assess the presentation, treatment, and clinical pictures of patients with uterine Enhanced myometrial vascularity/arteriovenous malformations that were diagnosed with transvaginal ultrasound scanning. We reviewed both (1) ultrasound data (images, measured dimensions, and Doppler blood flow that were defined by its peak systolic velocity and (2) clinical data (age, reproductive status, clinical presentation, inciting event or procedure, surgical history, clinical course, time intervals that included detection to resolution or detection to treatment, and treatment rendered). The diagnostic criteria were "subjective" with a rich vascular network in the myometrium with the use of color Doppler images and "objective" with a high peak systolic velocity of ≥20 cm/sec in the vascular web. Statistical analysis was performed and coded with statistical software where necessary.

RESULTS

Twenty-seven patients met the diagnostic criteria of uterine enhanced myometrial vascularity/arteriovenous malformation. Mean age was 31.8 years (range, 18-42 years). Clinical diagnoses of the patients included 10 incomplete abortions, 6 missed abortions, 5 spontaneous complete abortions, 5 cesarean scar pregnancies, and 1 molar pregnancy. Eighty-nine percent of patients had bleeding (n = 24/27), although 1 patient was febrile, and 2 patients were asymptomatic. Recent surgical procedures were performed in 55.5% patients (15/27) that included curettage (n = 10), cesarean deliveries (n = 5), or both (n = 1); 4 patients had a remote history of uterine surgery that included myomectomy. Treatment was varied and included expectant treatment alone in 48% of the patients with serial ultrasound scans and serum human chorionic gonadotropin until resolution (n = 13/27 patients), uterine artery embolization (29.6%; 8/27 patients), methotrexate administration (22.2%; 6/27 patients), hysterectomy (7.4%; 2/27 patients), and curettage (3.7%; 1/27 patients). Three patients required a blood transfusion. Of the 9 patients whose condition required embolization, the conditions of 7 patients resolved after the procedure although 1 patient's condition required operative hysteroscopy and 1 patient's condition required hysterectomy for intractable bleeding. Average peak systolic velocity after embolization in the 9 patients was 85.2 cm/sec (range, 35-170 cm/sec); the average peak systolic velocity of the 16 patients with spontaneous resolution was 58.5 cm/sec (range, 23-90 cm/sec).

CONCLUSIONS

Acquired enhanced myometrial vascularity/arteriovenous malformations occurred after unsuccessful pregnancies or treatment procedures that included uterine curettage, cesarean delivery, or cesarean scar pregnancy. Triage of patients for expectant treatment vs intervention with uterine artery embolization based on their clinical status, which was supplemented by objective measurements of blood velocity measurement in the arteriovenous malformation, appears to be a good predictor of outcome. Ultrasound evaluation of patients with early pregnancy failure and persistent bleeding should be considered for evaluation of a possible enhanced myometrial vascularity/arteriovenous malformation.

A case of congenital uterine arterio-venous malformation managed by hysterectomy

Background

A uterine arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is a rare cause of uterine bleeding. It may have varied presentations ranging from being completely asymptomatic; to features of congestive heart failure to vaginal bleeding which may at times life be threatening. Clinical findings in such cases are often un-reliable; requiring a high index of suspicion to make the diagnosis. Sonographic gray scale features are non-specific requiring confirmation with colour and spectral Doppler.

Case Report

We report a case of a 46-year-old lady who presented with heavy vaginal bleeding and ultrasound/colour Doppler evidence of uterine AVM managed by abdominal hysterectomy, describing the imaging features on ultrasound and Doppler. We also discuss in brief about this uncommon but serious condition which the radiologist/gynaecologist may encounter in thier practise.

Conclusions

Uterine AV Malformation is a rare but potentially life-threatening cause of menorrhagia which must be kept in the differential diagnosis of sudden and massive vaginal bleeding. Ultrasound remains the modality of choice in diagnosing the condition which requires a high index of clinical suspicion. Color and spectral Doppler ultrasound should be used to supplement the findings and to confirm the diagnosis.

Uterine arteriovenous malformation caused by intrauterine instrumentation for laparoscopic surgery due to left tubal pregnancy

Uterine arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is a rare entity in gynecology with fewer than 100 cases reported in the literature. Due to abnormal connection between arteries and veins without an intervening capillary system, recurrent and profuse vaginal bleeding is the most common symptom which can be potentially life-threatening. Uterine AVM can be either congenital or acquired. Acquired AVM is reported as a consequence of previous uterine trauma such as curettage procedures, caesarean section or pelvic surgery. It is also associated with infection, retained product of conception, gestational trophoblastic disease, malignancy and exposure to diethlystilboestrol. We herein report a case of acquired uterine AVM located on the right lateral wall after intrauterine instrumentation for laparoscopic left salpingectomy due to left tubal pregnancy. The patient was successfully treated with embolization.

Fertility-preserving management of a uterine arteriovenous malformation: a case report of uterine artery embolization (UAE) followed by laparoscopic resection

Herein is presented a fertility-preserving approach in the management of a uterine arteriovenous malformation (AVM) resistant to endovascular management. The patient had a documented AVM and underwent 2 uterine artery embolization procedures, with subsequent recurrence of symptoms. Doppler ultrasound demonstrated recanalization of the AVM. Ultimately, laparoscopic resection of the AVM was performed after laparoscopic ligation of the uterine arteries. Postoperatively, the patient has remained asymptomatic. Laparoscopic resection of a uterine AVM may offer a fertility-preserving alternative to hysterectomy in patients in whom endovascular management has failed.

Arteriovenous malformation in uterine cervix during pregnancy

As the development of Doppler ultrasonography, many cases of uterine arteriovenous malformation (AVM) have beed diagnosed. But there is no case of cervical AVM in pregnant uterus. We present a 33-year-old pregnant woman who was diagnosed with AVM of the uterine cervix during the midtrimester. Color Doppler sonography and magnetic resonance image were used for diagnosis. We performed Cesarean section because of the risk of massive bleeding from the cervical AVM at 34 weeks' gestation. This is the first case of cervical AVM during pregnancy with a successful outcome and an uneventful postpartum course.

Uterine arteriovenous malformation formed in a large uterine cervical myoma

Arteriovenous malformation (AVM) can arise in various organs, particularly the brain, but it is rare in the uterus. Uterine AVM is potentially lethal and is generally associated with uterine trauma, such as dilatation and curettage, therapeutic abortion or uterine surgery. On the other hand, uterine myoma is the most common benign gynecological tumor, but uterine cervical myoma is rare and grows in the extraperitoneal space, with development of complex capillary networks within the tumor. Cervical myoma surgery is therefore a difficult operation with a risk of massive bleeding. We report herein a patient with uterine AVM formed within a large cervical myoma in a postmenopausal woman. The patient was a 55-year-old Japanese woman who complained of lower abdominal distension. Ultrasonography, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging showed an 18 × 20-cm uterine cervical tumor with dilatation of numerous vessels. Pelvic angiography was scheduled to provide accurate diagnosis and to minimize intraoperative blood loss. In fact, preoperative pelvic angiography allowed us to identify the true feeding artery and drainage veins. Occlusion of the feeding artery with a balloon device is effective in decreasing intraoperative bleeding. Abdominal total hysterectomy was performed as the surgical management of this uterine AVM. Prophylactic endovascular balloon occlusion of the ipsilateral internal iliac artery reduced the amount of hemorrhage during surgery, although blood transfusion was needed in our patient. In conclusion, preoperative embolosclerotherapy should be considered as a treatment option in patients with AVM present in a large uterine cervical myoma.

Uterine arteriovenous malformation

Uterine arteriovenous vascular malformations (UAVM) are uncommon vascular diseases, occurring during reproductive age. Patients affected by UAMVs usually present with recurrent pregnancy loss or menorrhagia. Initial evaluation of UAVMs is made with ultrasonography (US) and US-Doppler. Magnetic resonance is used when a UAMV is suspected at US. Treatment can be surgical (hysterectomy or surgical removal of AVM), or with selective uterine arterial embolization. We report a case of UAMV, from its clinical signs to diagnostic confirmation and subsequent treatment.

Uterine arteriovenous malformation

Uterine arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is a little known condition of which, to date, very few cases have been described. It has a very diverse symptomatology, even though in most cases, it is diagnosed during a severe and acute haemorrhagic event. Its treatment can vary from expectant management to hysterectomy; however, current evidence suggests that the embolisation of uterine arteries is the most effective approach, especially if fertility is to be preserved. We present a case report classified as AVM, with additional images that show the appearance of this pathology in a short span of time. This case has a number of peculiarities: unusual persistence of human chorionic gonadotropin hormone (β-HCG), asymptomatic patient, quick establishment of the lesion and its duration with unchanging characteristics and finally its spontaneous resolution without further consequences. This entity shows an aetiopathogenesis, that is, not well established or described. We discuss its physiopathology and aetiopathogenesis.

Gestational trophoblastic disease II: classification and management of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia

Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) includes invasive mole, choriocarcinoma, placental site trophoblastic tumor, and epithelioid trophoblastic tumor. The overall cure rate in treating these tumors is currently >90%. Thorough evaluation and staging allow selection of appropriate therapy that maximizes chances for cure while minimizing toxicity. Nonmetastatic (stage I) and low-risk metastatic (stages II and III, score <7) GTN can be treated with single-agent chemotherapy resulting in a survival rate approaching 100%. High-risk GTN (stages II-IV, score ≥7) requires initial multiagent chemotherapy with or without adjuvant radiation and surgery to achieve a survival rate of 80-90%.

Ethanol embolotherapy of pelvic arteriovenous malformations: an initial experience

Objective

We retrospectively assessed the results of performing ethanol embolization for pelvis arteriovenous malformations (AVMs).

Materials and Methods

During the past 10 years, eight patients (8 females, age range: 27-52 years) with AVMs in the pelvic wall (n = 3) and uterus (n = 5) underwent staged ethanol embolizations (range: 1-5, mean: 2.5) under general anesthesia. Ethanol embolization was performed by the use of the transcatheter and/or direct puncture techniques. Clinical follow-up was performed for all of the patients, and imaging follow-up was available for seven patients. The therapeutic outcomes were established by evaluating the clinical outcome of the signs and symptoms, as well as the degree of devascularization observed on post-procedural angiography.

Results

During the 20 sessions of ethanol embolization, the solitary transarterial approach was used 14 times, the transvenous approach was used three times and direct puncture was used once. For two patients, the transarterial and transvenous or direct puncture approaches were used together in one session. For four patients, ethanol and coils were used as embolic agents, and n-butyl cyanoacrylate (NBCA) and ethanol were used in one patient. Seven (88%) of eight patients were cured of their AVMs and one patient (12%) displayed improvement. Major complications were seen in two patients (25%).

Conclusion

Ethanol embolization is effective for the treatment of pelvic arteriovenous malformations, though there is a chance of a major complication.

[Not Available]

Vascular abnormalities are uncommon causes of uterine bleeding. Laparoscopic surgeries, however, require expertise and improper techniques can lead to major vascular complications. We report an unusual case of utero-adenexal arterio- venous fistula with arterio - venous malformation due to pelvic trauma caused during laparoscopic sterilisation procedure, which was treated by percutaneous embolisation technique. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first documentation of such a complex vascular injury caused by laparoscopic sterilisation and its endovascular management.

Sonography of uterine abnormalities in postpartum and postabortion patients: a potential pitfall of interpretation

OBJECTIVE

The interpretation of postpartum and postabortion uterine abnormalities on sonography can be challenging. The purpose of this study was to identify misleading imaging features that lead to inclusion of a uterine arteriovenous malformation (AVM) in the differential diagnosis of a uterine abnormality because consideration of this diagnosis can potentially alter patient treatment.

METHODS

The sonographic examinations of 29 pathologically proven cases of uterine abnormalities in postpartum and postabortion patients were retrospectively reviewed. Two radiologists independently evaluated several features: the presence of a uterine mass, myometrial involvement, and the presence of an associated vascular abnormality. Percent agreement and the relationship between imaging features and inclusion of a uterine AVM in the differential diagnosis were determined.

RESULTS

Interobserver agreement was as follows: the presence of a uterine mass, 90%; myometrial involvement, 83%; the presence of an associated vascular abnormality, 72%; and inclusion of a uterine AVM in the differential diagnosis, 86%. Myometrial involvement showed a statistically significant relationship to inclusion of a uterine AVM in the differential diagnosis (P < .05). Final pathologic diagnoses included retained products of conception (RPOC) (n = 26), an endometrial polyp (n = 1), chronic endometritis (n = 1), and an exogenous progestational effect (n = 1). No uterine AVMs were found.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite high interobserver agreement in characterizing uterine abnormalities on sonography, readers still include uterine AVMs in the differential diagnosis of uterine masses that are ultimately proven to be RPOC. A myometrial location of a uterine mass is a particularly misleading imaging feature of RPOC.

Uterine arteriovenous malformation: fertility-sparing surgery using unilateral ligation of uterine artery and ovarian ligament

Arteriovenous malformations (AVM) are rarely found in the uterus and are usually acquired. The method of treatment is determined by symptoms, desire for future fertility, extent, and location of the malformation. Selective ligation of the vessels supplying the malformation is an effective treatment option when conservative methods have failed and uterine preservation is of primary concern. Measurement of uterine O(2) saturation and perfusion index has been shown to be effective in the intraoperative assessment of uterine viability, pre- and postligation of pelvic vasculature. We present the case of a 32-year-old woman with a postmolar uterine AVM treated surgically with unilateral uterine artery and ovarian ligament ligation.

Retained products of conception mimicking a large endometrial AVM: complete resolution following spontaneous abortion

We report an unusual appearance of retained products of conception that mimicked an arteriovenous malformation. A 38-year-old woman presented with persistent scant vaginal bleeding and declining levels of serum beta-HCG after therapeutic abortion. Sonographic examination revealed a highly vascular lobulated mass, which on spectral Doppler examination showed low resistance and high peak systolic velocity suggestive of arteriovenous shunting. The patient spontaneously passed tissue per vagina, after which the endometrial vascular mass completely disappeared, indicating that the sonographic abnormality was the retained products of conception. The pathologic basis for such a finding is discussed.

Spontaneous development of endometrial venous malformation: diagnosis with color Doppler sonography

We report the case of a spontaneous development of venous malformation within the endometrium of a patient with adenomyosis who was on oral contraceptives for a prolonged period of time. This vascular abnormality was incidentally identified and diagnosed with color Doppler ultrasound when the patient was referred for pelvic ultrasound for her symptoms related to adenomyosis. The vascular abnormality was characterized as venous malformation based on its Doppler tracing. The possible causes of its spontaneous development are discussed.

Uterine arteriovenous malformations: from diagnosis to treatment

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to describe the sonographic features of uterine arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) and to describe the role and clinical outcome after transcatheter arterial embolization of symptomatic uterine AVMs.

METHODS

In our institution, over a 4-year period, symptomatic uterine AVMs were diagnosed in 21 women. Endovaginal sonography with gray scale, color, and spectral Doppler imaging was performed on all patients. Fourteen patients required therapeutic angiography/embolization to control bleeding. These 14 patients had follow-up endovaginal sonography 24 hours after the procedure.

RESULTS

The sonographic gray scale findings of uterine AVMs were nonspecific. The most common finding was subtle myometrial heterogeneity (n = 14), whereas other patients had small anechoic spaces in the myometrium (n = 7). Color Doppler sonography showed a tangle of vessels with multidirectional high-velocity flow that produced a "color mosaic" pattern. Spectral Doppler analysis showed arteriovenous shunting with high-velocity, low-resistance flow. Fourteen patients required transcatheter arterial embolization to control bleeding. Thirteen of 14 patients had no sonographic evidence of a residual AVM 24 hours after the procedure. One of 14 patients had a residual AVM requiring additional embolization. One patient had recurrent bleeding at 4 months and required further embolization. The remaining 7 patients were treated conservatively.

CONCLUSIONS

Endovaginal sonography is the imaging modality of choice in patients with abnormal uterine bleeding. Routine use of color and spectral Doppler sonography allows one to confidently make the correct diagnosis. Transcatheter arterial embolization is an excellent treatment option. Endovaginal sonography should be used to monitor postembolization outcomes.

Prise en charge des hémorragies graves du post-partum: indications et techniques de l’embolisation artérielle

Pluridisciplinary management of women with postpartum hemorrhage is mandatory in order to precisely assess initial seriousness, to maintain hemodynamic parameters and to confirm the cause of bleeding. Embolization should be offered only after exploration of the uterine cavity, inspection of the vagina, cervix and perineum and failure of uterotonic drugs. Embolization should be carried out in an angiography suite under constant monitoring of the patient by the anesthesiologist. Indications to perform arterial embolization include uterine atony particularly following a vaginal delivery, cervico-uterine hemorrhage, cervicovaginal lacerations (previously repaired or if surgical repair has failed) and vaginal thrombus, particularly in case of associated coagulopathy. Arterial embolization is effective in about 85% of cases. Placenta acccreta can also be successfully managed with arterial embolization as an alternative to hysterectomy. Unilateral femoral approach allows selective study of both internal iliac arteries and branches. Selective embolization of both uterine arteries should be ideally performed. In case of spasm or difficult catheterization, embolization of the anterior division of both internal iliac arteries should be considered. In case of bleeding from the cervico-vaginal region, selective evaluation and embolization of cervicovaginal branches should be performed. In case of failure or recurrence of bleeding, ovarian and round ligament arteries should be evaluated. In most cases, resorbable gelatin sponge pledgets should be used to perform embolization. The use of microcatheters and non resorbable embolization agents should be considered by trained interventional radiologists in case of placenta accreta or vascular lesions. After embolization, the patient should be transferred to the intensive care unit for further observation in order to offer emergent surgical procedure or another session of embolization in case of recurrence of bleeding.

Radiology of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia

Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) encompasses a broad spectrum of placental lesions from the pre-malignant hydatidiform mole (complete and partial) through to the malignant invasive mole, choriocarcinoma and rare placental site trophoblastic tumour (PSTT). Ultrasound remains the radiological investigation of choice for initial diagnosis, and it can also predict invasive and recurrent disease. Magnetic resonance imaging is of invaluable use in assessing extra-uterine tumour spread, tumour vascularity, and overall staging. Positron emission tomography and computed tomography undoubtedly have a role in recurrent and metastatic disease, while angiography has a place in disease and complication management. This review will describe the relevant pathophysiology and natural history of GTN, and the use of imaging techniques in the diagnosis and management of these conditions.

Acquired uterine vascular malformations: radiological and clinical outcome after transcatheter embolotherapy

The purpose of this retrospective study is to assess the radiological and clinical outcome of transcatheter embolization of acquired uterine vascular malformations in patients presenting with secondary postpartum or postabortion vaginal hemorrhage. In a cohort of 17 patients (mean age: 29.7 years; standard deviation: 4.23; range: 25-38 years) 18 embolization procedures were performed. Angiography demonstrated a uterine parenchymal hyperemia with normal drainage into the large pelvic veins ("low-flow uterine vascular malformation") in 83% (n=15) or a direct arteriovenous fistula ("high-flow uterine vascular malformation") in 17% (n=3). Clinically, in all patients the bleeding stopped after embolization but in 1 patient early recurrence of hemorrhage occurred and was treated by hysterectomy. Pathological analysis revealed a choriocarcinoma. During follow-up (mean time period: 18.8 months; range: 1-36 months) 6 patients became pregnant and delivered a healthy child. Transcatheter embolization of the uterine arteries, using microparticles, is safe and highly effective in the treatment of a bleeding acquired uterine vascular malformation. In case of clinical failure, an underlying neoplastic disease should be considered. Future pregnancy is still possible after embolization.

Treatment of high-risk gestational trophoblastic neoplasia with etoposide, methotrexate, actinomycin D, cyclophosphamide, and vincristine chemotherapy☆

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the study was to evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of etoposide, methotrexate, actinomycin D, cyclophosphamide, and vincristine (EMA-CO) chemotherapy for the treatment of high-risk gestational trophoblastic neoplasia.

METHODS

Forty-five patients with high-risk gestational trophoblastic tumors received 257 EMA-CO treatment cycles between 1986 and 2001. Twenty-five were treated primarily with EMA-CO because of the presence of one or more high-risk factors and 20 were treated with EMA-CO secondarily after failure of single-agent chemotherapy. Patients who had incomplete responses or developed resistance to EMA-CO were treated with drug combinations employing cisplatin and etoposide with or without bleomycin or ifosfamide. Adjuvant surgery and radiotherapy were used in selected patients. Survival, clinical response, and toxicity were analyzed retrospectively.

RESULTS

The overall survival rates was 91% (41/45); survival rates were 92% (23/25) for primary treatment and 90% (18/20) for secondary treatment with EMA-CO. Of the 45 patients treated with EMA-CO, 32 (71%) had a complete clinical response, 9 (20%) developed resistance but were subsequently placed into remission with cisplatin-based chemotherapy, and 4 (9%) died of widespread metastatic disease. Clinical complete response to EMA-CO was significantly influenced by duration of disease from antecedent pregnancy to treatment (<6 months, 84%, vs >6 months, 43%), metastatic site (lung and pelvis, 73%, vs other, 40%), and WHO score (< or =7, 96%, vs >7, 36%). The EMA-CO chemotherapy regimen produced no life-threatening toxicity, caused grade 3-4 hematologic toxicity in 1.6% of cycles, and was associated with neutropenia necessitating a 1-week delay in treatment in only 13.5% of cycles.

CONCLUSION

EMA-CO chemotherapy is a well-tolerated and highly effective treatment for high-risk gestational trophoblastic neoplasia, yielding a 71% complete response rate and a 91% survival rate in this series.

Efficacy of Embolization in Traumatic Uterine Vascular Malformations

PURPOSE

To evaluate the efficacy of embolotherapy in patients with bleeding traumatic uterine arteriovenous malformations (AVMs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective review of all patients who underwent pelvic arterial embolization at our institution between July 1992 and September 2002 was performed. Fifteen patients were diagnosed with a uterine vascular malformation on duplex ultrasonography and correlative MR imaging. Serial beta-human chorionic gonadotropin levels were measured to exclude gestational trophoblastic neoplasia. All patients underwent transcatheter embolization of the uterine arteries. Embolizations were performed with use of standard 4-5-F catheters and microcatheters when necessary. Embolic agents in the 25 procedures included glue only (n = 13), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) particles and glue (n = 4), PVA particles (n = 2), Gelfoam (n = 2), coils (n = 1), PVA particles and coils (n = 1), glue and Gelfoam (n = 1), and glue and coils (n = 1). PVA particle size ranged from 350 to 1,000 micro m. Outcomes assessed were cessation of bleeding, persistence or resolution of the AVM, complications, and pregnancy after embolization. These were assessed by chart, laboratory, and imaging reviews.

RESULTS

A total of 25 embolization procedures were performed in 15 patients. Six patients required repeat embolization (one patient underwent embolization on six occasions; five patients had two embolization procedures each) for recurrence of bleeding. Sixteen procedures were performed on an elective basis and nine were performed on an emergent basis. The technical success rate of embolization was 100%. The clinical success rate was 93%: bleeding was controlled in 14 of 15 patients and one patient underwent a hysterectomy. Four of the 15 patients subsequently had a total of five uneventful intrauterine pregnancies carried to term. The 14 patients who underwent successful embolization had no recurrence of bleeding at a median follow-up of 53 months (range, 3-124 months) after treatment. Three patients were eventually lost to follow-up. One minor complication (0.4%) of non-flow-limiting dissection of the internal iliac artery occurred.

CONCLUSION

Percutaneous embolotherapy is a safe and effective treatment for traumatic AVMs. This procedure allows for preservation of uterine function with the possibility of future pregnancy and should be considered as a primary treatment option.