Ovarian Artery: Angiographic Appearance, Embolization and Relevance to Uterine Fibroid Embolization

Journal Article · Sun Jun 15 04:00:00 EDT 2003 · Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiology

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1007/S00270-002-1875-3· OSTI ID:21088398

Walker, W J ^[1]; Le Dref, O; Rymer, R ^[2]

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1. Hopital Lariboisiere, AP-HP, 2 rue AmbroisePare, F-75475 Paris cedex 10, Department of Body and Vascular Imaging (France)
2. Royal SurreyCounty Hospital, Egerton Road, Guildford GU2 5XX, X-ray Department (United Kingdom)

Purpose: To describe the angiographic appearance of the ovarian artery and its main variations that may be relevant to uterine fibroid embolization. Methods: The flush aortograms of 294 women who had been treated by uterine artery embolization for fibroids were reviewed. Significant arterial supply to the fibroid, and the origin and diameter of identified ovarian arteries were recorded. In patients with additional embolization of the ovarian artery, the follow-up evaluation also included hormonal levels and Doppler imaging of the ovaries. Results: A total of 75 ovarian arteries were identified in 59 women (bilaterally in 16 women and unilaterally in 43 women). All ovarian arteries originated from the aorta below the level of the renal arteries with a characteristic tortuous course. Fifteen women had at least one enlarged ovarian artery supplying the fibroids. Fourteen women (14/15, 93%) presented at least one of the following factors: prior pelvic surgery, tubo-ovarian pathology or large fundal fibroids. Conclusion: We advocate the use of flush aortography in women with prior tubo-ovarian pathology or surgery or in cases of large fundal fibroids. In the case of an ovarian artery supply to the fibroids, superselective catheterization and embolization of the ovarian artery should be considered.

• OSTI ID: 21088398
• Journal Information: Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiology, Journal Name: Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiology Journal Issue: 3 Vol. 26; ISSN 0174-1551; ISSN CAIRDG
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

62 RADIOLOGY AND NUCLEAR MEDICINE
ARTERIES
EVALUATION
HORMONES
KIDNEYS
OVARIES
PATIENTS
SURGERY
WOMEN