Uterine arteriovenous malformation treated by hysteroscopic excision

Abstract

Uterine arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is a vascular hamartoma of the myometrium that mostly results from uterine tissue damage. Herein, we report a case of uterine AVM managed successfully by hysteroscopy. The patient had an induced abortion and subsequent persistent vaginal spotting and irregular active vaginal bleeding. Ultrasonography showed a 3.5 cm × 2.9 cm heterogeneous lesion in the endometrial cavity with increased vascularity. Symptoms were monitored without uterine artery embolization to avoid complications that may affect a future pregnancy. However, 10 days later, she presented with active vaginal bleeding. Hysteroscopic endometrial mass excision was performed. Her postoperative hemoglobin level and vital signs were stable. Biopsy of the excised mass revealed AVM. Her postoperative vaginal bleeding decreased significantly, and outpatient ultrasonography 1 month later showed no abnormal findings. This case confirms the feasibility and safety of hysteroscopic management of uterine AVMs. The hysteroscopic technique should be prioritized for managing uterine AVMs.

Keywords

• Arteriovenous malformation
• endometrium
• hysteroscopy
• uterine artery
• uterine hemorrhage