Uterine fistula induced by hysteroscopic resection of an embolized migrated fibroid: a rare complication after embolization of uterine fibroids

Fertil Steril. 2001 Apr;75(4):818-20. doi: 10.1016/s0015-0282(00)01788-x.

Abstract

Objective: To describe a case in which hysteroscopic removal of a fibroid that had migrated through the uterine wall induced formation of a uterine fistula.

Design: After embolization of uterine fibroids, an investigative clinical, sonographic, and hysteroscopic protocol was followed.

Setting: Gynecologic clinic of a university hospital.

Patient(s): A 38-year-old woman undergoing embolization of uterine arteries for uterine fibroids.

Intervention(s): Angiography-guided transcatheter bilateral embolization of uterine arteries, with clinical, sonographic, and hysteroscopic follow-up.

Main outcome measure(s): Patient morbidity and satisfactory intercourse.

Result(s): Six months after embolization of the uterine arteries, the patient presented migration of the fibroid through the uterine wall. Hysteroscopic removal of the fibroid induced posthysteroscopic formation of a uterine fistula.

Conclusion(s): After embolization of the uterine arteries, thorough follow-up examination of the uterine cavity is strictly recommended. Diagnosis of a uterine wall perforation can identify an abnormal source of uterine bleeding, and patients should be counseled to avoid pregnancy until the lesion heals completely.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Embolization, Therapeutic / adverse effects*
  • Female
  • Fistula / etiology*
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Hysteroscopy / adverse effects*
  • Leiomyoma / blood supply
  • Leiomyoma / therapy*
  • Uterine Diseases / etiology*
  • Uterine Neoplasms / blood supply
  • Uterine Neoplasms / therapy*