Fibroid expulsion: a unique presentation of mechanical small bowel obstruction 11 years after uterine artery embolization: a case report

J Med Case Rep. 2021 Jul 9;15(1):356. doi: 10.1186/s13256-021-02917-z.

Abstract

Background: Uterine artery embolization in the treatment of uterine leiomyoma has been rarely associated with dislodgement and expulsion of infarcted uterine fibroids through the vagina, peritoneum, or bowel wall, predominantly occurring within 6 months of uterine artery embolization.

Case presentation: We present the case of a 54-year-old African American woman who underwent uterine artery embolization 11 years prior and developed mechanical small bowel obstruction from the migration of fibroid through a uteroenteric fistula with ultimate impaction within the distal small bowel lumen. Small bowel resection and hysterectomy were curative.

Conclusions: Uteroenteric fistula with small bowel obstruction due to fibroid expulsion may present as a delayed finding after uterine artery embolization and requires heightened awareness.

Keywords: Case report; Fibroid; Small bowel obstruction; Uterine artery embolization; Uteroenteric fistula.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Embolization, Therapeutic*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Intestinal Obstruction* / diagnostic imaging
  • Intestinal Obstruction* / etiology
  • Intestinal Obstruction* / surgery
  • Leiomyoma* / complications
  • Leiomyoma* / surgery
  • Middle Aged
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Uterine Artery Embolization*
  • Uterine Diseases*
  • Uterine Neoplasms* / complications
  • Uterine Neoplasms* / surgery