Hysteroscopic resection of retained products of conception combined with uterine artery balloon occlusion: A novel case report

J Obstet Gynaecol Res. 2023 Apr;49(4):1295-1299. doi: 10.1111/jog.15561. Epub 2023 Jan 17.

Abstract

Retained products of conception can cause massive bleeding that can be prevented by uterine artery embolization before resection; however, uterine artery balloon occlusion is less invasive. While scattered reports of its use for postpartum hemorrhage exist, no indications have been described. We report a case of hysteroscopic resection of retained products of conception using uterine artery balloon occlusion instead of uterine artery embolization. A 29-year-old woman, gravida 2 para 0, noted an intrauterine mass after an abortion at 7 weeks' gestation. Follow-up visits showed insufficient lowering of human chorionic gonadotropin levels, necessitating surgical treatment. Considering the patient's desire to conceive, we performed uterine artery balloon occlusion to reduce the risk of perinatal complications associated with uterine artery embolization. The operation was completed without complications. The patient conceived spontaneously and had a live baby 7 months after surgery, thus proving the benefits of uterine artery balloon occlusion before hysteroscopic resection.

Keywords: balloon occlusion; hysteroscopy; placenta; uterine artery embolization.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Balloon Occlusion*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Parturition
  • Postpartum Hemorrhage* / therapy
  • Pregnancy
  • Uterine Artery
  • Uterine Artery Embolization*