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CT findings after uterine artery embolization.
S Vott1, S M Bonilla, S C Goodwin
1Department of Radiological Sciences, UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1720, USA.
Journal of Computer Assisted Tomography
|December 6, 2000
Summary
Asymptomatic uterine leiomyomas are often found during pelvic CT scans. Uterine artery embolization can cause fibroid necrosis and cavitation within a month.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Gynecologic Imaging
- Interventional Radiology
Background:
- Uterine leiomyomas, also known as fibroids, are common benign tumors.
- Computed tomography (CT) is frequently used for pelvic imaging.
- Asymptomatic leiomyomas can be incidentally detected on CT scans.
Observation:
- Routine pelvic CT scans can identify asymptomatic uterine leiomyomas.
- Leiomyomas appear as low attenuation masses that distort uterine contour.
- Four women with uterine leiomyomas underwent uterine artery embolization (UAE).
Findings:
- Post-UAE CT scans showed contrast retention in fibroids immediately after the procedure.
- Central necrosis of fibroids was observed.
- Cavitation within fibroids was evident as early as one month post-procedure.
Implications:
- CT imaging is valuable for monitoring uterine leiomyoma changes after UAE.
- Understanding post-embolization CT findings is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
- This can help differentiate treatment effects from disease progression.