Uterine artery pseudoaneurysm with an anastomotic feeding vessel requiring repeat embolisation

BMJ Case Rep. 2018 Jul 11:2018:bcr2018224656. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2018-224656.

Abstract

Uterine artery pseudoaneurysm (UAP) is a rare cause of delayed postpartum haemorrhage. Early diagnosis and endovascular management are effective in treating this condition. We present the case of a 36-year-old gravida 3, para 2 woman with delayed postpartum haemorrhage and endometritis following a spontaneous vaginal delivery. Ultrasound and catheter angiogram demonstrated a UAP arising from the distal aspect of the left uterine artery. Significant bleed persisted despite selective bilateral uterine artery embolisation. A repeat angiogram confirmed complete occlusion of bilateral uterine arteries, but abdominal aortogram demonstrated that the left ovarian artery was now feeding the pseudoaneurysm. A repeat embolisation procedure was performed to occlude the left ovarian artery. The patient was discharged the following day. Selective arterial embolisation is effective in the management of UAP. Persistent bleeding despite embolisation should raise the suspicion of anastomotic vascular supply and may require repeat embolisation.

Keywords: interventional radiology; obstetrics, gynaecology and fertility; pregnancy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aneurysm, False / etiology*
  • Aneurysm, False / therapy
  • Angiography
  • Delivery, Obstetric / adverse effects*
  • Endometritis
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Ovary / blood supply
  • Postpartum Hemorrhage / etiology*
  • Postpartum Hemorrhage / therapy
  • Pregnancy
  • Uterine Artery / diagnostic imaging*
  • Uterine Artery Embolization / methods*