Uterine vascular lesions

Rev Obstet Gynecol. 2013;6(2):69-79.

Abstract

Vascular lesions of the uterus are rare; most reported in the literature are arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). Uterine AVMs can be congenital or acquired. In recent years, there has been an increasing number of reports of acquired vascular lesions of the uterus following pregnancy, abortion, cesarean delivery, and curettage. It can be seen from these reports that there is confusion concerning the terminology of uterine vascular lesions. There is also a lack of diagnostic criteria and management guidelines, which has led to an increased number of unnecessary invasive procedures (eg, angiography, uterine artery embolization, hysterectomy for abnormal vaginal bleeding). This article familiarizes readers with various vascular lesions of the uterus and their management.

Keywords: Acquired AVM; Placental chorioangioma; Uterine arteriovenous fistula; Uterine arteriovenous malformations; Uterine hemangioma; Uterine pseudoaneurysm.