Postpartum uterine arteriovenous fistula.

BACKGROUND

Uterine arteriovenous communications are uncommon lesions that may be associated with life-threatening postpartum and postinstrumentation hemorrhage.

CASE: A primigravida presented with infected retained products of conception. Excessive hemorrhage of unclear etiology occurred at dilation and curettage. After a second episode of bleeding, the patient received a diagnosis of uterine arteriovenous fistula.

CONCLUSION

Uterine arteriovenous communications should be included in the differential diagnosis in patients with excessive postpartum or postinstrumentation bleeding. Color and spectral flow Doppler can aid diagnosis and clinical management.