Percutaneous embolization in the management of intractable vaginal bleeding

Arch Gynecol Obstet. 2001 Jan;264(4):211-4. doi: 10.1007/s004040000119.

Abstract

Aim: To assess the effectiveness of arterial embolization in gynecological malignancies by Polyvinyl Alcohol particles.

Material and methods: Six patients, four with cervix carcinoma, one endometrium carcinoma, and one vaginal metastasis of ovarian carcinoma underwent percutaneous embolization due to intractable vaginal bleeding. As an embolic agent PVA particles were used.

Results: Cessation of the bleeding was observed immediately after the embolization. Complete embolization has been achieved in all the patients Recurrent bleeding did not occur in any of the cases. There were no complications related to the embolization procedure.

Conclusion: Transarterial embolization is a lifesaving procedure in treating intractable vaginal bleeding. PVA particles are effective and it is a simple way in ceasing the hemorrhage due to pelvic malignancies.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Angiography
  • Embolization, Therapeutic*
  • Endometrial Neoplasms / blood supply
  • Endometrial Neoplasms / complications
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Iliac Artery
  • Middle Aged
  • Ovarian Neoplasms / complications
  • Polyvinyl Alcohol
  • Uterine Cervical Neoplasms / blood supply
  • Uterine Cervical Neoplasms / complications
  • Uterine Hemorrhage / etiology
  • Uterine Hemorrhage / therapy*
  • Vaginal Neoplasms / blood supply
  • Vaginal Neoplasms / secondary

Substances

  • Polyvinyl Alcohol