Imaging spectrum of acquired uterine vascular abnormalities with angiographic correlates, a pictorial review

Abstract

Abstract Background Acquired uterine arterial anomalies, including uterine artery pseudoaneurysms (UAP), arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) and arteriovenous fistulae (AFVs), are rare presenting causes of abnormal uterine bleeding. Timely diagnosis is essential for safe and effective treatment, avoiding life-threatening haemorrhage resulting from erroneous uterine curettage due to misdiagnosing these as other more common differentials. Main text This pictorial review discusses the ultrasound (USG), CT and MRI features of various acquired uterine vascular abnormalities with angiographic correlates. Conclusion Acquired uterine arteriovenous injuries are a fundamental cause of dysfunctional intractable bleeding recalcitrant to traditional conservative management. Endovascular transcatheter uterine artery embolisation is an increasingly popular and safe mode of treatment, especially in young patients desiring to have the option of future pregnancies, with lesser morbidity and in-hospital stay duration.

Keywords

• Arteriovenous malformation
• Ultrasound
• Magnetic resonance imaging
• Computed tomography angiography
• Uterine artery embolisation
• Uterus