Conservative surgical management of arteriovenous malformation of the uterus

ABSTRACT

A 28-year old G2P1 (1011) experienced repeated episodes of vaginal bleeding starting a month after an uncomplicated curettage for a miscarriage. Transvaginal sonography with Doppler studies revealde findings suggestive of uterine arteriovenous malformation (AVM). She underwent successful conservative management consisiting of bilateral internal iliac artery ligation followed by excision of an endometrial mass and overlying myometrium. Arteriovenous malformation of the uterus is a rare clinical entity that may present as a life-threatening condition warranting immediate definitive management. With the utilization of diagnostic imaging modalities such as endovaginal sonography with Doppler studies, computed tomography scan, magnetic resonance imaging or angiography, artriovenous malformation of the uterus can be diagnosed per-operatively and appropriate treatment strategies can subsequently be implemented.