Influence of Cesarean Section Scar on the Mean Pulsatility Index of the Uterine Artery Doppler between 20 and 34 Weeks of Gestation.

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the influence of the cesarean section scars on the mean pulsatility index (PI) of the uterine artery Doppler between 20 and 34 weeks of gestation. A secondary objective was to assess the association between previous cesarean section and adverse maternal/perinatal outcomes. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted with pregnant women who had their deliveries between March 2014 and February 2023. PI of the uterine arteries Doppler was performed transvaginally between 20-24 weeks and transabdominally between 28-34 weeks. The following variables were considered adverse perinatal outcomes: birth weight < 10th percentile for gestational age, preeclampsia, premature birth, placental abruption, perinatal death, postpartum hemorrhage, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission. Results: A total of 479 pregnant women were included in the final statistical analysis, being that 70.6% (338/479) had no (Group I) and 29.4% (141/479) had at least one previous cesarean section (Group II). Pregnant women with a previous cesarean had higher median of mean PI (1.06 vs. 0.97, p = 0.044) and median MoM of mean PI uterine arteries Doppler (1.06 vs. 0.98, p = 0.037) than pregnant women without previous cesarean section at ultrasound 20-24 weeks. Pregnant women with a previous cesarean section had higher median of mean PI (0.77 vs. 0.70, p < 0.001) and mean MoM PI uterine arteries Doppler (1.08 vs. 0.99, p < 0.001) than pregnant women without previous cesarean section at ultrasound 28-34 weeks. Pregnant women with ≥ 2 previous cesarean sections had a higher median of mean PI uterine arteries Doppler than those with no previous cesarean sections (1.19 vs. 0.97, p = 0.036). Group II had a lower risk of postpartum hemorrhage (aPR 0.31, 95% CI 0.13-0.75, p = 0.009) and composite neonatal outcome (aPR 0.66, 95% CI 0.49-0.88, p = 0.006). Group II had a higher risk of APGAR score at the 5th minute < 7 (aPR 0.75, 95% CI 1.49-51.29, p = 0.016). Conclusion: The number of previous cesarean sections had a significant influence on the mean PI uterine arteries Doppler between 20-24 and 28-34 weeks of gestation. Previous cesarean section was an independent predictor of postpartum hemorrhage and APGAR score at the 5th minute < 7. Pregnancy-associated arterial hypertension and number of previous deliveries influenced the risk of composite neonatal outcome, but not the presence of previous cesarean section alone.

Correlation of pelvic ultrasonography with pubertal development in girls.

Objectives: This study aims to correlate pelvic ultrasound with female puberty and evaluate the usual ultrasound parameters as diagnostic tests for the onset of puberty and, in particular, a less studied parameter: the Doppler evaluation of the uterine arteries. Methods: Cross-sectional study with girls aged from one to less than eighteen years old, with normal pubertal development, who underwent pelvic ultrasound examination from November 2020 to December 2021. The presence of thelarche was the clinical criterion to distinguish pubescent from non-pubescent girls. The sonographic parameters were evaluated using the ROC curve and the cutoff point defined through the Youden index (J). Results: 60 girls were included in the study. Uterine volume ≥ 2.45mL had a sensitivity of 93%, specificity of 90%, PPV of 90%, NPV of 93% and accuracy of 91% (AUC 0.972) for predicting the onset of puberty. Mean ovarian volume ≥ 1.48mL had a sensitivity of 96%, specificity of 90%, PPV of 90%, NPV of 97% and accuracy of 93% (AUC 0.966). Mean PI ≤ 2.75 had 100% sensitivity, 48% specificity, 62% PPV, 100% NPV and 72% accuracy (AUC 0.756) for predicting the onset of puberty. Conclusion: Pelvic ultrasound proved to be an excellent tool for female pubertal assessment and uterine and ovarian volume, the best ultrasound parameters for detecting the onset of puberty. The PI of the uterine arteries, in this study, although useful in the pubertal evaluation, showed lower accuracy in relation to the uterine and ovarian volume.

Uterine Artery Embolization Versus Hysterectomy in Postpartum Hemorrhage: A Systematic Review With Meta-Analysis.

PURPOSE: The objective of this study is to perform a meta-analysis comparing the effectiveness of uterine artery embolization (UAE) versus peripartum hysterectomy for acute refractory postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) control. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We systematically searched 6 medical databases for studies comparing UAE and hysterectomy in PPH. Outcomes examined were mortality, hospitalization duration (HD) in days, and red blood cells (RBC) units utilization. Statistical analysis used RevMan 5.1.7 and random-effects models. Odds ratios (OR) and mean differences (MDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used for dichotomous and continuous outcomes, respectively. RESULTS: We included 833 patients from 4 cohort studies, with 583 (70%) undergoing UAE. The UAE population required fewer RBC units (MD: -7.39; 95% CI: -14.73 to -0.04; p=0.05) and had shorter HD (MD: -3.22; 95% CI: -5.42 to -1.02; p=0.004). Lower mortality rates were noted for UAE in the pooled analysis, but no statistical significance. Uterine artery embolization demonstrated lower procedural complications (16.45% vs. 28.8%), in which UAE had less ureter and bladder lesions (OR: 0.05; 95% CI: 0.01-0.38; p=0.004 and OR: 0.02; 95% CI: 0.00-0.15; p<0.001, respectively). Only 35 (6%) required conversion to hysterectomy, while 27 (4.6%) underwent re-embolization with 100% bleeding control. Uterine artery embolization did not hinder fertility, with normal menstruation restored in 19 patients with postoligomenorrhea. CONCLUSION: Uterine artery embolization for the control of PPH is associated with lower use of RBC units and HD, but similar rates of mortality are noted when compared to hysterectomy. These results associated with uterine preservation could support its importance for refractory PPH management. CLINICAL IMPACT: Uterine Artery Embolization is associated with a shorter hospitalization duration and reduced use of red blood cell units when compared with hysterectomy in refractory postpartum hemorrhage. Although demonstrating similar mortality rates, these findings, together with fertility preservation, support the method incorporation as a valuable option in obstetric services.

Performance of machine-learning approach for prediction of pre-eclampsia in a middle-income country.

OBJECTIVE: Pre-eclampsia (PE) is a serious complication of pregnancy associated with maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. As current prediction models have limitations and may not be applicable in resource-limited settings, we aimed to develop a machine-learning (ML) algorithm that offers a potential solution for developing accurate and efficient first-trimester prediction of PE. METHODS: We conducted a prospective cohort study in Mexico City, Mexico to develop a first-trimester prediction model for preterm PE (pPE) using ML. Maternal characteristics and locally derived multiples of the median (MoM) values for mean arterial pressure, uterine artery pulsatility index and serum placental growth factor were used for variable selection. The dataset was split into training, validation and test sets. An elastic-net method was employed for predictor selection, and model performance was evaluated using area under the receiver-operating-characteristics curve (AUC) and detection rates (DR) at 10% false-positive rates (FPR). RESULTS: The final analysis included 3050 pregnant women, of whom 124 (4.07%) developed PE. The ML model showed good performance, with AUCs of 0.897, 0.963 and 0.778 for pPE, early-onset PE (ePE) and any type of PE (all-PE), respectively. The DRs at 10% FPR were 76.5%, 88.2% and 50.1% for pPE, ePE and all-PE, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Our ML model demonstrated high accuracy in predicting pPE and ePE using first-trimester maternal characteristics and locally derived MoM. The model may provide an efficient and accessible tool for early prediction of PE, facilitating timely intervention and improved maternal and fetal outcome. © 2023 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Eficiencia de un enfoque de aprendizaje automático para la predicción de la preeclampsia en un país de ingresos medios OBJETIVO: La preeclampsia (PE) es una complicación grave del embarazo asociada a morbilidad y mortalidad materna y del feto. Dado que los modelos de predicción actuales tienen limitaciones y pueden no ser aplicables en situaciones con recursos limitados, se propuso desarrollar un algoritmo de aprendizaje automático (AA) que ofrezca una solución con potencial para desarrollar una predicción precisa y eficiente de la PE en el primer trimestre. MÉTODOS: Se realizó un estudio de cohorte prospectivo en Ciudad de México para desarrollar un modelo de predicción de la PE pretérmino (PEp) en el primer trimestre utilizando AA. Para la selección de variables se utilizaron las características maternas y los múltiplos de la mediana (MdM) obtenidos localmente para la presión arterial media, el índice de pulsatilidad de la arteria uterina y el factor de crecimiento placentario sérico. El conjunto de datos se dividió en subconjuntos de datos de entrenamiento, de validación y de test estadístico. Se empleó un método de red elástica para la selección de predictores, y el rendimiento del modelo se evaluó mediante el área bajo la curva de características operativas del receptor (ABC) y las tasas de detección (TD) con tasas de falsos positivos (TFP) del 10%. RESULTADOS: El análisis final incluyó a 3050 mujeres embarazadas, de las cuales 124 (4,07%) desarrollaron PE. El modelo de AA mostró una buena eficiencia, con un ABC de 0,897, 0,963 y 0,778 para la PEp, la PE de aparición temprana (PEat) y cualquier tipo de PE (todas las PE), respectivamente. Las TD con TFP del 10% fueron del 76,5%, 88,2% y 50,1% para la PEp, PEat y todas las PE, respectivamente. CONCLUSIONES: Nuestro modelo de AA demostró una alta precisión en la predicción de la PEp y la PEat utilizando características maternas del primer trimestre y MdM calculados localmente. El modelo puede proporcionar una herramienta eficiente y accesible para la predicción temprana de la PE, facilitando la intervención oportuna y la mejora de los resultados maternos y del feto.

Prevención de hemorragia posparto durante la cesárea mediante ligadura de las arterias uterinas en pacientes con factores de riesgo / Uterine artery ligation for prevention of postpartum hemorrhage in patients with risk factors for cesarean section

Resumen OBJETIVO: Evaluar la utilidad preventiva de la hemorragia posparto mediante la ligadura bilateral de las arterias uterinas en pacientes con factores de riesgo. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Estudio prospectivo, experimental, aleatorizado no probabilístico, por conveniencia, de casos y controles, longitudinal, comparativo al que se incluyeron pacientes con factores de riesgo de hemorragia posparto que finalizaron el embarazo mediante cesárea de urgencia. Se integraron dos grupos: experimental, en quienes se aplicó la técnica de ligadura bilateral de arterias uterinas y el grupo control: solo con cesárea. Antes y después del procedimiento quirúrgico se estimaron la pérdida de sangre, los parámetros de hemoglobina y hematocrito y se compararon con el grupo de control. RESULTADOS: Se estudiaron 91 pacientes: 45 en el grupo experimental y 46 de solo cesárea. Se observaron diferencias significativas en la pérdida de sangre del grupo experimental (345.56 ± 64.69 mL) en comparación con el grupo control (426.06 ± 125.49 mL; p = 0.000247), en los parámetros de hemoglobina (grupo experimental: 11:13 ± 1.62 g/dL; grupo control: 10.49 ± 1.32 g/dL, p = 0.037) y hematocrito (grupo experimental: 33.86%; grupo control: 31.87%; p = 0.017). CONCLUSIÓN: La ligadura bilateral de las arterias uterinas a pacientes con factores de riesgo de hemorragia poscesárea es una medida preventiva eficaz que ayuda a disminuir la pérdida sanguínea. Al complementarla con los uterotónicos reduce el volumen de sangrado.

Abstract OBJECTIVE: Evaluation of the benefits and harms of bilateral uterine artery ligation for prevention of postpartum hemorrhage in patients with risk factors. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Prospective, experimental, randomized, case-control, longitudinal, comparative study conducted during 2022, which included patients with risk factors for postpartum hemorrhage who terminated pregnancy by emergency cesarean section. Two groups were included: the experimental group, in which the technique of bilateral uterine artery ligation was applied, and the control group, in which only cesarean section was performed. Before and after the surgical procedure, blood loss, hemoglobin and hematocrit parameters were estimated and compared with the control group. RESULTS: Ninety-one patients were studied: 45 in the experimental group and 46 in the cesarean only group. Significant differences were observed in blood loss in the experimental group (345.56 ± 64.69 mL) compared to the control group (426.06 ± 125.49 mL; p = 0.000247), in hemoglobin (experimental group: 11:13 ± 1.62 g/dL; control group: 10.49 ± 1.32 g/dL, p = 0.037) and hematocrit (experimental group: 33.86%; control group: 31.87%; p = 0.017). CONCLUSION: Bilateral uterine artery ligation in patients with risk factors for post-cesarean hemorrhage is an effective preventive measure that helps to reduce blood loss. When combined with uterotonics, it reduces the volume of bleeding.

The role of ultrasound and mitofusin-2 levels to predict pregnancy outcomes in patients with severe preeclampsia: a case-control study

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate mitofusin-2 levels and fetal Doppler ultrasonography effects in patients with severe preeclampsia. METHODS: This single-center case-control study was conducted in the gynecology service of the university hospital in Van. A total of 90 pregnant women aged 18-40 years were included in the study. Of these, 30 are normal, 30 have mild preeclampsia, and 30 are pregnant with severe preeclampsia. In this study, especially in severe preeclampsia patients, serum mitofusin-2 levels and important fetal Doppler flows such as uterine arterial pressure, umbilical arterial pressure, and 1st and 5th minute Apgar scores, birth weight, and the relationship between postnatal outcomes such as week of birth and the number of patients in the neonatal intensive care unit were investigated. RESULTS: There was a significant difference between the three groups in terms of mitofusin-2 levels, which was the highest in the group (p<0.05). Maternal serum mitofusin-2 levels were positively correlated with uterine arterial pressure (r=0.543, p=0.007), umbilical arterial pressure (r=0.238, p=0.008), diastolic blood pressure, and systolic blood pressure (p<0.001). Receiver operating characteristic curve of mitofusin-2 in predicting preeclampsia is as follows: optimal cutoff 1.6 ng/mL; area under the curve: 0.861; 95%CI: 0.786-0.917; sensitivity: 83.9%; and specificity: 70.0%, (p≤0.001). A one-unit increase in mitofusin-2 resulted in a statistically significant 4.21-fold increase in preeclampsia risk. CONCLUSION: This study recommends the use of mitofusin-2 together with fetal Doppler ultrasound findings as a reliable indicator of preeclampsia severity.

Correlation of pelvic ultrasonography with pubertal development in girls

Abstract Objectives: This study aims to correlate pelvic ultrasound with female puberty and evaluate the usual ultrasound parameters as diagnostic tests for the onset of puberty and, in particular, a less studied parameter: the Doppler evaluation of the uterine arteries. Methods: Cross-sectional study with girls aged from one to less than eighteen years old, with normal pubertal development, who underwent pelvic ultrasound examination from November 2020 to December 2021. The presence of thelarche was the clinical criterion to distinguish pubescent from non-pubescent girls. The sonographic parameters were evaluated using the ROC curve and the cutoff point defined through the Youden index (J). Results: 60 girls were included in the study. Uterine volume ≥ 2.45mL had a sensitivity of 93%, specificity of 90%, PPV of 90%, NPV of 93% and accuracy of 91% (AUC 0.972) for predicting the onset of puberty. Mean ovarian volume ≥ 1.48mL had a sensitivity of 96%, specificity of 90%, PPV of 90%, NPV of 97% and accuracy of 93% (AUC 0.966). Mean PI ≤ 2.75 had 100% sensitivity, 48% specificity, 62% PPV, 100% NPV and 72% accuracy (AUC 0.756) for predicting the onset of puberty. Conclusion: Pelvic ultrasound proved to be an excellent tool for female pubertal assessment and uterine and ovarian volume, the best ultrasound parameters for detecting the onset of puberty. The PI of the uterine arteries, in this study, although useful in the pubertal evaluation, showed lower accuracy in relation to the uterine and ovarian volume.

Malformação arteriovenosa uterina: um relato de caso / Uterine arteriovenous malformation: a case report

O presente estudo tem como objetivo relatar o caso de uma paciente com malformação arteriovenosa uterina, efetivamente tratada com embolização seletiva e com fertilidade preservada. A malformação arteriovenosa uterina é uma alteração vascular rara até então pouco descrita na literatura. A paciente do sexo feminino apresentou quadro de sangramento uterino anormal, com início 30 dias após um abortamento, sem realização de curetagem, de uma gestação resultante de fertilização in vitro. Foram, então, realizados exames de imagem, que levaram ao diagnóstico de malformação arteriovenosa uterina. O tratamento de escolha foi a embolização arterial seletiva, com resolução do caso. Após sete meses, nova fertilização in vitro foi realizada, encontrando-se na 36a semana de gestação. São necessários mais estudos sobre essa malformação a fim de que sejam estabelecidos os métodos mais eficazes para o manejo de casos futuros, especialmente quando há desejo de gestar.

The present study aims to report the case of a patient with uterine arteriovenous malformation, effectively treated with selective embolization and with preserved fertility. Uterine arteriovenous malformation is a rare vascular disorder that has so far been rarely described in the literature. Female patient presented with abnormal uterine bleeding, starting 30 days after an abortion without subsequent curettage, of a pregnancy resulting from in vitro fertilization. Imaging tests were then performed that led to the diagnosis of uterine arteriovenous malformation. The treatment of choice was selective arterial embolization, with successful results. After seven months, a new in vitro fertilization was performed, being in the 36th week of pregnancy. Further studies on this pathology are needed in order to establish the most effective methods for the management of future cases, especially when there is a desire to become pregnant.

Efficacy of Embolization in Acquired Uterine Vascular Malformations: An Experience in Tertiary Care Centre in India / Eficácia da embolização em malformações vasculares uterinas adquiridas: uma experiência em centro de atendimento terciário na Índia

Abstract 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.

A case report of a successful multidisciplinary management of an abdominal pregnancy / Manejo multidisciplinario exitoso del embarazo abdominal. Reporte de un caso peruano

Abdominal pregnancy is defined as one that occurs outside of the uterus and fallopian tubes in the abdominal cavity. We present the case of a 30-year-old Peruvian female patient from Lima with a surgical history of exploratory laparotomy due to tubal ectopic pregnancy and appendectomy without further relevant personal or family histories. She attended the emergency room of a social security hospital in Peru with a referral from a district hospital and a diagnosis of abdominal pregnancy at 14 weeks of gestational age without previous prenatal controls. Symptomatology at hospital admission was colic-type abdominal pain in the hypogastrium without vaginal bleeding, fluid loss or fever. During hospitalization, she underwent an exploratory laparotomy with embolization of the uterine artery, left salpingectomy, and removal of the abdominal ectopic pregnancy. The evolution was favorable after the surgery, and she was discharged. Without further complications, she continues her controls at the obstetrics and gynecology outpatient service without complications.

El embarazo abdominal es aquel embarazo que ocurre fuera del útero y las trompas de Falopio en la cavidad abdominal. Presentamos el caso de una paciente peruana de 30 años proveniente de la ciudad de Lima, con antecedentes quirúrgicos de laparotomía exploradora por embarazo ectópico tubárico y apendicectomía, sin otras patologías ni antecedentes familiares de importancia. La paciente acude al servicio de urgencias de un hospital del seguro social en Perú derivada de un hospital distrital con diagnóstico de embarazo abdominal a las 14 semanas de edad gestacional, sin controles prenatales previos. La sintomatología al ingreso hospitalario fue dolor abdominal de tipo cólico a nivel del hipogastrio, sin sangrado vaginal, pérdida de líquidos o fiebre. Durante su hospitalización se le realizó una laparotomía exploratoria con embolización de la arteria uterina, salpingectomía izquierda y extracción del embarazo abdominal. La evolución fue favorable tras la intervención quirúrgica, siendo dada de alta. Actualmente continúa sus controles en el servicio de consulta externa del servicio de ginecología y obstetricia sin complicaciones.

A case report of a successful multidisciplinary management of an abdominal pregnancy.

Abdominal pregnancy is defined as one that occurs outside of the uterus and fallopian tubes in the abdominal cavity. We present the case of a 30-year-old Peruvian female patient from Lima with a surgical history of exploratory laparotomy due to tubal ectopic pregnancy and appendectomy without further relevant personal or family histories. She attended the emergency room of a social security hospital in Peru with a referral from a district hospital and a diagnosis of abdominal pregnancy at 14 weeks of gestational age without previous prenatal controls. Symptomatology at hospital admission was colic-type abdominal pain in the hypogastrium without vaginal bleeding, fluid loss or fever. During hospitalization, she underwent an exploratory laparotomy with embolization of the uterine artery, left salpingectomy, and removal of the abdominal ectopic pregnancy. The evolution was favorable after the surgery, and she was discharged. Without further complications, she continues her controls at the obstetrics and gynecology outpatient service without complications.

El embarazo abdominal es aquel embarazo que ocurre fuera del útero y las trompas de Falopio en la cavidad abdominal. Presentamos el caso de una paciente peruana de 30 años proveniente de la ciudad de Lima, con antecedentes quirúrgicos de laparotomía exploradora por embarazo ectópico tubárico y apendicectomía, sin otras patologías ni antecedentes familiares de importancia. La paciente acude al servicio de urgencias de un hospital del seguro social en Perú derivada de un hospital distrital con diagnóstico de embarazo abdominal a las 14 semanas de edad gestacional, sin controles prenatales previos. La sintomatología al ingreso hospitalario fue dolor abdominal de tipo cólico a nivel del hipogastrio, sin sangrado vaginal, pérdida de líquidos o fiebre. Durante su hospitalización se le realizó una laparotomía exploratoria con embolización de la arteria uterina, salpingectomía izquierda y extracción del embarazo abdominal. La evolución fue favorable tras la intervención quirúrgica, siendo dada de alta. Actualmente continúa sus controles en el servicio de consulta externa del servicio de ginecología y obstetricia sin complicaciones.

Malformación arteriovenosa uterina como causa de hemorragia puerperal tardía / Uterine arteriovenous malformation as a cause of late puerperal hemorrhage

Resumen ANTECEDENTES: Las malformaciones arteriovenosas uterinas constituyen una causa infrecuente de hemorragia puerperal, en la bibliografía solo se encontraron 150 casos. Su conocimiento es importante porque son potencialmente mortales y porque se ha registrado un aumento en los últimos años. Suelen estar relacionadas con intervenciones en el útero: legrados, cesáreas o miomectomías o asociadas con neoplasias (enfermedad trofoblástica gestacional o adenocarcinoma endometrial), aunque otras son congénitas. CASO CLÍNICO: Paciente de 32 años, con una conización cervical y ablación de un mioma uterino mediante radiofrecuencia como únicos antecedentes de interés. A los 15 días posteriores a un parto eutócico, que fue el primero en su historial, tuvo un episodio de abundante metrorragia. En el puerperio inmediato tuvo una hemorragia abundante que requirió la transfusión de dos concentrados de hematíes. En la ecografía transvaginal el útero se observó de 22 x 44 mm, que podría corresponder a un cotiledón retenido. Ante la persistencia del sangrado se colocó un taponamiento intracavitario con una sonda de Foley con lo que se consiguió el cese del sangrado. Luego de descartar la embolización de las arterias uterinas debido al gran tamaño de la malformación arteriovenosa, se procedió a la histerectomía total simple por vía laparotómica. CONCLUSIÓN: Las malformaciones arteriovenosas uterinas, aunque son una causa infrecuente de hemorragia puerperal, deben ser sospechadas en virtud de ser potencialmente mortales.

Abstract BACKGROUND: Uterine arteriovenous malformations are a rare cause of puerperal hemorrhage, with only 150 cases reported in the literature. Their knowledge is important because they are life-threatening and because there has been an increase in recent years. They are usually related to interventions in the uterus: curettage, caesarean section or myomectomy or associated with neoplasms (gestational trophoblastic disease or endometrial adenocarcinoma), although others are congenital. CLINICAL CASE: A 32-year-old patient with a cervical conization and ablation of a uterine myoma by radiofrequency as the only history of interest. Fifteen days after a euthecological delivery, which was the first in her history, she had an episode of abundant metrorrhagia. In the immediate postpartum period, she had a heavy hemorrhage that required the transfusion of two red blood cell concentrates. Transvaginal ultrasound showed a uterus measuring 22 x 44 mm, which could correspond to a retained cotyledon. In view of the persistent bleeding, intracavitary tamponade was placed with a Foley catheter, which led to cessation of bleeding. After ruling out embolization of the uterine arteries due to the large size of the arteriovenous malformation, a simple total hysterectomy by laparotomy was performed. CONCLUSION: Uterine arteriovenous malformations, although an infrequent cause of puerperal hemorrhage, should be suspected because they are potentially fatal.

Prediction and prevention of preeclampsia by physicians in Brazil: An original study.

Background: Considering the worldwide importance of preeclampsia, especially in Brazil, the screening of pregnant women at greater risk of developing the disease and the application of preventive measures are essential. This study aimed to assess the medical performance in this context in Brazil. Methods: A survey was developed to quantify the number of physicians who prescribe acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) and/or calcium for preeclampsia prevention. The survey was sent to all Brazilian obstetricians affiliated to the Brazilian Federation of OBGYN by email and WhatsApp. The survey remained opened for 6 months and included questions about the use of ASA and calcium, as well as about the use of a complementary test to predict preeclampsia. Results: The sample consisted of 360 responding physicians and 100% coverage of responses from physicians from the five different regions of Brazil was obtained. The vast majority of respondents (94.72%) prescribe ASA to prevent preeclampsia, with 80.3% prescribing a dose of 100 mg/day. Calcium is prescribed by 83.9% of the respondents. The majority of the interviewed sample (58.6%) requests uterine artery Doppler imaging to predict preeclampsia and 31.7% do not request any additional test. When the analysis was performed by region, only the northern region differed from the other Brazilian regions regarding the use of ASA and calcium for preeclampsia prevention. While more than 90% of physicians in the other regions prescribe ASA, 40% in the northern region do not use it (p < 0.0001). Regarding calcium, 30% of physicians in northern Brazil do not use the drug for preeclampsia prevention, a percentage that also differs from the other regions where the medication is prescribed by 80 to 90% of physicians (p = 0.021). Conclusions: The vast majority of Brazilian physicians prescribe low-dose aspirin and calcium carbonate to prevent preeclampsia in high-risk pregnant women. In addition to the identification of clinical risk factors, most doctors use Doppler of the uterine arteries as a predictive method. In the northern region of Brazil, physicians use aspirin and calcium less frequently for preventing preeclampsia compared to the rest of the country.

Uterine artery embolization with highly compressible calibrated microspheres for the treatment of uterine fibroids.

Objective: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of using highly compressible calibrated microspheres in uterine artery embolization (UAE) for the treatment of uterine fibroids. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective multicenter study. Thirty-two women with symptomatic uterine fibroids were selected for UAE between January 2019 and March 2020. The participants completed the Uterine Fibroid Symptom and Quality of Life (UFS-QOL) questionnaire, underwent contrast-enhanced pelvic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and were submitted to anti-Müllerian hormone measurement, subsequently undergoing UAE with Embosoft microspheres. After six months, the patients again completed the UFS-QOL questionnaire and underwent pelvic MRI. Results: The most common symptoms were abnormal uterine bleeding (in 81.3% of the cases), pelvic pain (in 81.3%), and compression (in 46.9%). Of the 32 patients evaluated, 12 (37.5%) had anemia due to abnormal uterine bleeding. Thirty patients completed the study. Among those patients, we observed median reductions of 21.4% in uterine volume and 15.9% in dominant fibroid volume. We identified no adverse events that could be attributed to the material itself, although there were events attributed to the UAE procedure in general. Conclusion: For the treatment of uterine fibroids, UAE using Embosoft microspheres shows satisfactory results, providing reductions in uterine and dominant fibroid volumes, with a low rate of adverse events, and improving patient quality of life, as well as demonstrating safety and efficacy.

Objetivo: Avaliar a eficácia e segurança da embolização da artéria uterina (EAU) com microesferas calibradas de alta compressibilidade no tratamento de miomas uterinos. Materiais e Métodos: Este foi um estudo prospectivo e multicêntrico. Foram selecionadas 32 mulheres com miomas uterinos sintomáticos para EAU de janeiro de 2019 a março de 2020. As participantes preencheram o questionário Uterine Fibroid Symptom and Quality of Life (UFS-QOL), realizaram ressonância magnética (RM) pélvica com contraste e teste para medição dos hormônios antimüllerianos, seguido de embolização de miomas com microesferas Embosoft. Após seis meses, as pacientes novamente preencheram o UFS-QOL e realizaram RM pélvica. Resultados: Os sintomas mais relatados foram sangramento uterino anormal (81,3%), dor pélvica (81,3%) e compressão (46,9%). Doze pacientes (37,5%) apresentaram anemia consequente a sangramento uterino anormal. Nas 30 pacientes que completaram o estudo, observou-se redução mediana de 21,4% no volume uterino e 15,9% no volume do mioma dominante. Não foram identificados eventos adversos possivelmente relacionados ao material utilizado, apenas em relação ao procedimento de EAU. Conclusão: EAU com microesferas Embrosoft mostrou resultados satisfatórios no tratamento de miomas uterinos, com redução dos volumes uterino e do mioma dominante, baixa taxa de eventos adversos e melhora na qualidade de vida, demonstrando segurança e eficácia.

Uterine artery embolization with highly compressible calibrated microspheres for the treatment of uterine fibroids / Embolização de miomas uterinos com microesferas calibradas de alta compressibilidade

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of using highly compressible calibrated microspheres in uterine artery embolization (UAE) for the treatment of uterine fibroids. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective multicenter study. Thirty-two women with symptomatic uterine fibroids were selected for UAE between January 2019 and March 2020. The participants completed the Uterine Fibroid Symptom and Quality of Life (UFS-QOL) questionnaire, underwent contrast-enhanced pelvic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and were submitted to anti-Müllerian hormone measurement, subsequently undergoing UAE with Embosoft microspheres. After six months, the patients again completed the UFS-QOL questionnaire and underwent pelvic MRI. Results: The most common symptoms were abnormal uterine bleeding (in 81.3% of the cases), pelvic pain (in 81.3%), and compression (in 46.9%). Of the 32 patients evaluated, 12 (37.5%) had anemia due to abnormal uterine bleeding. Thirty patients completed the study. Among those patients, we observed median reductions of 21.4% in uterine volume and 15.9% in dominant fibroid volume. We identified no adverse events that could be attributed to the material itself, although there were events attributed to the UAE procedure in general. Conclusion: For the treatment of uterine fibroids, UAE using Embosoft microspheres shows satisfactory results, providing reductions in uterine and dominant fibroid volumes, with a low rate of adverse events, and improving patient quality of life, as well as demonstrating safety and efficacy.

Resumo Objetivo: Avaliar a eficácia e segurança da embolização da artéria uterina (EAU) com microesferas calibradas de alta compressibilidade no tratamento de miomas uterinos. Materiais e Métodos: Este foi um estudo prospectivo e multicêntrico. Foram selecionadas 32 mulheres com miomas uterinos sintomáticos para EAU de janeiro de 2019 a março de 2020. As participantes preencheram o questionário Uterine Fibroid Symptom and Quality of Life (UFS-QOL), realizaram ressonância magnética (RM) pélvica com contraste e teste para medição dos hormônios antimüllerianos, seguido de embolização de miomas com microesferas Embosoft. Após seis meses, as pacientes novamente preencheram o UFS-QOL e realizaram RM pélvica. Resultados: Os sintomas mais relatados foram sangramento uterino anormal (81,3%), dor pélvica (81,3%) e compressão (46,9%). Doze pacientes (37,5%) apresentaram anemia consequente a sangramento uterino anormal. Nas 30 pacientes que completaram o estudo, observou-se redução mediana de 21,4% no volume uterino e 15,9% no volume do mioma dominante. Não foram identificados eventos adversos possivelmente relacionados ao material utilizado, apenas em relação ao procedimento de EAU. Conclusão: EAU com microesferas Embrosoft mostrou resultados satisfatórios no tratamento de miomas uterinos, com redução dos volumes uterino e do mioma dominante, baixa taxa de eventos adversos e melhora na qualidade de vida, demonstrando segurança e eficácia.

Doppler ultrasonographic evaluation of medically treated female dogs with cystic endometrial hyperplasia-pyometra complex.

Monitoring the treatment outcome of canine cystic endometrial hyperplasia-pyometra complex (CEH-P) is essential to identify nonresponding patients who might require a rapid intervention to avoid life-threatening conditions. Uterine artery Doppler characterization may contribute to monitoring medically treated CEH-P, but published studies are currently lacking. Therefore, the aim of this longitudinal prospective observational study was to evaluate uterine artery resistance changes in the medical treatment of female dogs with CEH-P. Twelve diestrous female dogs suffering from CEH-P were treated with a combined protocol of cabergoline, cloprostenol, and antibiotics. The animals were clinically and ultrasonographically evaluated before the beginning of treatment (day 0) and on days 3, 7, 14, 21, and 28. The widest transverse diameter and luminal diameter of uterine horns were measured, as well as the peak systolic velocity (PSV) and end diastolic velocity (EDV) of uterine arteries. The resistance index (RI), pulsatility index (PI), and notch deep index (NDI) were calculated. On day 3, nine of 12 animals showed clinical improvement. In all these female dogs, the widest transverse sectional diameter (P < 0.01), luminal diameter (P < 0.01), PSV (P < 0.01), and EDV (P < 0.01) progressively decreased, while RI (P < 0.01), PI (P < 0.01), and NDI (P < 0.01) increased up to day 21. In nonresponding dogs (3/12), Doppler parameters remained unchanged. Although comparisons of PSV, EDV, and NDI were significantly different, these results should be cautiously interpreted due to the low statistical power. female dogs that responded to this treatment showed an increase in uterine artery resistance, along with clinical and ultrasonographic improvement.

Could Aspirin Treatment Modify the Assessment of the Uterine Arteries? / O tratamento com aspirina pode modificar a avaliação das artérias uterinas?

Abstract Objective To analyze whether acetylsalicylic (ASA) intake modifies the mean uterine arteries pulsatility index (UtA-PI) at the 2nd or 3rd trimester in a cohort of pregnant women with abnormal mean UtA-PI at between 11 and 14 weeks of gestation. Methods This is a retrospective cohort study. Singleton pregnancies with abnormal mean UtA-PI at between 11 and 14 weeks of gestation were studied. The participants were divided into 3 groups: 1) If the participant did not take ASA during pregnancy; 2) If the participant took ASA before 14 weeks of gestation; and 3) If the participant took ASA after 14 weeks of gestation. The mean UtA-PI was evaluated at the 2nd and 3rd trimesters, and it was considered to improve when it decreased below the 95th percentile. The prevalence ratio (PR) and the number needed to treat (NNT) werecalculated. Results A total of 72 participants with a mean UtA-PI>95th percentile at the 1st trimester of gestation were evaluated. Out of the 18 participants who took ASA, 8 participants started it before 14 weeks of gestation and 10 after. A total of 33.3% of these participants had improved the mean UtA-PI at the 2nd and 3rd trimesters of gestation, although it was not statistically significant (p=0.154). The prevalence ratio was 0.95 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.31-1.89), but between the 1st and 2nd trimesters of gestation, the PR was 0.92 (95%CI: 0.21-0.99) and it was statistically significant. Conclusion The present work demonstrates a modification of the mean UtA-PI in participants who took ASA compared with those who did not. It is important to check if ASA can modify the normal limits of uterine arteries because this could have an impact on surveillance.

Resumo Objetivo Analisar se a ingestão de acetilsalicílico (ASA) modifica o índice médio de pulsatilidade das artérias uterinas (UtA-PI) no 2° ou 3° trimestre em uma coorte de gestantes com média anormal de UtA-PI entre 11 e 14 semanas. Métodos Este é um estudo de coorte retrospectivo. Gravidezes únicas com média anormal de UtA-PI entre 11 e 14 semanas foram estudadas. As participantes foram divididas em 3 grupos: 1) Se a participante não tomou ASA durante a gravidez, 2) Se a participante tomou AAS antes das 14 semanas e 3) Se a participante tomou ASA após 14 semanas. A média do UtA-PI foi avaliada nos 2° e 3° trimestres e considerou-se que melhorava quando diminuía<95° percentil. Foram calculados a razão de prevalência (RP) e o número necessário para tratar (NNT). Resultados Foram avaliadas 72 participantes com média de UtA-PI>95° percentil no 1° trimestre de gravidez. Das 18 participantes que tomaram ASA, 8 participantes começaram antes de 14 semanas e 10 depois. Um total de 33,3% desses participantes melhoraram a média de UtA-PI nos 2° e 3° trimestres, embora não tenha sido estatisticamente significante (p=0,154). A razão de prevalência foi de 0,95 (intervalo de confiança [IC95%]: 0,31-1,89), mas entre os 1° e o 2° trimestres, a RP foi de 0,92 (IC95%: 0,21-0,99) e foi estatisticamente significativa. Conclusão O presente trabalho demonstra uma modificação da média de UtA-PI em participantes que faziam uso de ASA em comparação com aqueles que não faziam. É importante verificar se o ASA pode modificar os limites normais das artérias uterinas porque isso pode ter um impacto na vigilância.

Myoma expulsion after embolization: case report and literature review.

Uterine artery embolization (UAE) is a very efficient treatment modality for myoma. A rare complication of this procedure is vaginal expulsion of the uterine myoma (expelled myoma) which may occur in 3 to 5% of cases during a period of 3 to 48 months. We report a case of myoma expulsion after embolization, discussing diagnosis and treatment. A literature review was also conducted. A 40-year-old patient sought medical care on 5/2/2021 with intermittent pelvic pain and hypermenorrhagia. Vaginal ultrasound revealed an enlarged uterus (253 cm3) with myomas. The largest intramural myoma measured 7 cm. Uterine artery embolization was performed on 11/11/2021, without any complications. On 12/7/2021, during clinical examination an expelled myoma was observed entirely inside the vaginal canal. A vaginal myomectomy was performed, without any complications. At 15 months after the initial follow-up, the patient is doing well.

Increased pulsatility index of uterine artery Doppler between 26 and 28 weeks of gestation and adverse perinatal outcomes.

OBJECTIVE: To compare adverse perinatal outcomes in pregnant women with or without normalization of the mean pulsatility index (PI) uterine artery Doppler between 24 and 28 weeks of gestation. METHODS: Retrospective cohort which pregnant women were divided into three groups: normal uterine artery Doppler between 20-24 and 26-28 weeks (controls), abnormal uterine artery Doppler between 20-24 and normal between 26-28 weeks (anUtA), and abnormal uterine artery Doppler between 20-24 and 26-28 weeks (aaUtA). To compare adverse perinatal results between the groups Chi-square test was used. Binary logistic regression was used to assess the ability of uterine artery Doppler to predict birthweight < 10th and composite perinatal outcomes. RESULTS: Birthweight was significantly lower in the aaUtA compared to anUtA (2687 vs 3248 grams, p = 0.0479). A significant negative correlation was observed between the mean PI uterine artery Doppler during the 3rd trimester and birthweight (r = -0.13, R2 = 0.035, p = .0192). The prevalence of composite perinatal outcomes was significantly higher in aaUtA compared to anUtA (25.9 vs 0%, p = .013). Mean PI uterine artery Doppler during the 3rd trimester was significant predictor for birthweight < 10th (OR: 2.74, CI 95% = 1.03-7.3), but the protodiastolic notch and the association between mean PI uterine artery Doppler and protodiastolic notch were not. CONCLUSION: Maintenance of altered uterine artery Doppler during the 3rd trimester was associated with higher prevalence of composite perinatal outcomes and lower birthweight compared to its late normalization. Although modest, uterine artery Doppler in the 3rd trimester proved to be predictor of birthweight < 10th.

First-trimester miscarriage rate decreases with hydralazine therapy in pregnancies with early uterine vascular insufficiency: a cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Miscarriage is the most frequent cause of pregnancy loss, affecting 15-20% of clinically recognized pregnancies. Early uterine vascular insufficiency (EUVI), defined as abnormal uterine artery (UA) Doppler impedance indices in early pregnancy, is present in two-thirds of pregnancies ending in miscarriage after embryonic cardiac activity has been detected. There is currently no available therapy for reducing the risk of miscarriage in these cases. OBJECTIVE: To determine whether vasodilator therapy with hydralazine can reduce abnormally high UA impedance indices and miscarriage rates in pregnancies with EUVI when administered from before 9 weeks' gestation until completing 13 weeks' gestation. METHODS: A total of 253 consecutive singleton pregnancies with a live embryo and scanned before 9 weeks' gestation were included in the study. Ninety-two pregnancies (36.3%) were classified as having EUVI. Hydralazine was administered in daily doses of 50 mg, starting 24-36 h after the initial diagnosis of EUVI and continuing throughout the first trimester. The miscarriage rate in the hydralazine-treated EUVI group was compared with the one observed in our previously reported untreated cohort and the pregnancies with EUVI that declined treatment with hydralazine. RESULTS: The miscarriage rate among the hydralazine-treated EUVI group was significantly lower than the previously reported untreated cohort (7.8% versus 26.2%, p = .003; odds ratio (OR) = 4.3, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.6-11.9). In 15 untreated pregnancies with EUVI, the miscarriage rate was similar to that of the previously reported untreated cohort (26.7% versus 26.2%; p = .603) and higher than the hydralazine-treated group (26.7% versus 7.8%, p = .05; OR = 4.4, 95% CI = 1.1-18.2). CONCLUSIONS: Hydralazine therapy in pregnancies with EUVI was associated with a significant decrease in the rate of miscarriage. We suggest a sequence of events leading to a higher risk of miscarriage in pregnancies with EUVI and propose a potential mechanism through which hydralazine may reduce this risk.