Transcatheter Ovarian Vein Embolization for Pelvic Congestion Syndrome: Short-Term Outcome

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate the short-term therapeutic effectiveness of ovarian vein embolization using coils for pelvic congestion syndrome (PCS), a common cause of chronic pelvic pain, and to determine patient satisfaction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-four multiparous women aged 26-73 (mean, 39.9) years in whom chronic pelvic pain due to unknown causes had lasted for more than six months, and whose gynecologic findings and laboratory data suggested PCS, underwent transabdominal or transvaginal ultrasonography and selective ovarian venography. PSC was finally diagnosed in 21 of th 44, who underwent 22 ovarian vein embolizations (in one case, bilaterally). The simple pain rating system was used at admission, with a 'minimal' or 'moderate' grade representing discomfort in daily life, and 'severe' indicating the need for medication. Indications for coil embolization included dilatation of the ovarian vein to a diameter of more than 6 mm, reflux involving an incompetent valve, congestion of the pelvic venous plexus (involving the stasis of contrast media), and/or opacification of the ipsilateral internal iliac vein (or contralateral filling). Embolizations were undertaken using coils of optimal size and number, and the mean follow-up period was 217 (31-267) days. By means of a telephone questionnaire, the outcome was classified as a cure, pain reduction, or 'no change, or aggravation', and on the basis of whether or not they would opt for the same treatment, or recommend embolization to others, patient satisfaction was graded as 'substantial', 'moderate', or 'absent. RESULTS: Venous occlusion was confimed at postembolization venography in all 22 cases. Clinical treatment led to symptomatic relief in 76.2% of patients a cure in 33.3% (7/21), pain reduction in 42.9% (9/21) and no imchange, or aggravation, in 23.8% (5/21). Eighteen patients (85.8%) were very (9/21, 42.9%) or moderately (9/21, 42.9%) satisfied with coil embolization. In two, the coil migrated, and was successfully retrieved using a snare loop. CONCLUSION: In this study, ovarian vein embolization using coils for PCS appeared to be both safe and effective in controlling pain. If other causes of pelvic pain are absent, it is thought to be a valuable alternative to surgical procedures.