Uterine artery embolization in late postpartum hemorrhage due to pseudoaneurysm: case report

Late postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is defined as uterine bleeding between 24 hours until 12 weeks after delivery. Uterine artery pseudoaneurysm is a rare cause of life-threatening late postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). Emergency uterine artery embolization (UAE) is an appropriate method for control of hemorrhage. The aim of this report was to present a case of uterine artery embolization in late postpartum hemorrhage due to uterine artery pseudoaneurysm.
A 25-year-old woman with the history of three previous cesarean sections was admitted 35 days after the last cesarean. She had severe vaginal bleeding for 35 days after cesarean section. Because of severe vaginal bleeding 35 days after cesarean section, the patient was at nearly shock state (BP=90.60 mmHg, positive tilt test, tachycardia PR=120/m). In speculum examination, she had severe vaginal bleeding, but there was no lesion in vagina or cervix, also, bimanual examination of the uterus and adnexal area were normal. She reanimated by two liters of normal saline and uterotonic agents (oxytocin and methergine) were administered.
Laboratory data showed severe anemia (Hb=6.5 gr/dl), but coagulation tests were normal. Ultrasonography didn’t show any abnormality. Because of continuation of vaginal bleeding after stabilization of the patient, UAE was planned. During pelvic angiography, a pseudoaneurysm was diagnosed and then it was treated by successful UAE.
Uterine artery embolization is a conservative management for control of late postpartum hemorrhage. It can be a useful and alternative method for uterine and hypogastric artery ligation and hysterectomy, therefore it has an important role in treatment and fertility preservation for young women.