[Uterine arteriovenous malformation as cause of uterine bleeding of sudden onset. Doppler ultrasound utility, other imaging methods and the minimally invasive treatment].

BACKGROUND

Uterine arteriovenous malformation is a rare disorder that can cause sudden life-threatening vaginal bleeding.

OBJETIVE: To present the clinical features in addition to the use of office gynecologic ultrasound and other imaging techniques in the diagnosis and minimally-invasive treatment of a patient with sudden vaginal bleeding resulting from a uterine arteriovenous malformation.

CASE REPORT: A 31 year old woman presented sudden onset vaginal bleeding requiring the transfusion of 3 units of red blood cells. An initial diagnosis of uterine arteriovenous malformation was made using an office gynecological ultrasound and Color Doppler sonography. The patient was referred to interventional radiology for confirmation of the diagnosis and patient care. The diagnosis and localization of the uterine arteriovenous malformation was confirmed using magnetic resonance imaging. Therapeutic management proceeded with superselective angiography and embolization of the supplying arteries resulting in immediate symptomatic resolution.

CONCLUSION

The use of office gynecologic ultrasound in combination with other imaging techniques is an important tool in the diagnosis and localization of uterine arteriovenous malformation. Embolization of supplying arteries is considered a safe and effective therapeutic option due to advances in radiologic intervention techniques. Advantages of this procedure include a minimally-invasive technique, low morbidity and preservation of uterine function.