The pelvic congestion syndrome

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Obstetrics & Gynecology
• Radiology

Background:

• Perivulval varices frequently emerge during pregnancy, typically resolving postpartum.
• These varices can enlarge with successive pregnancies, potentially affecting the buttocks and legs.
• Some cases involve extensive broad ligament varices, leading to pelvic congestion syndrome.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between perivulval varices, pelvic congestion syndrome, and ovarian vein dilation.
• To evaluate the efficacy of treating proximal venous incompetence in managing these conditions.

Main Methods:

• Clinical observation of patients with perivulval varices during pregnancy.
• Diagnostic assessment including imaging to identify dilated ovarian veins in patients with pelvic congestion syndrome.
• Intervention focused on eliminating proximal venous incompetence.

Main Results:

• Perivulval varices are linked to pregnancy and can become more severe with subsequent pregnancies.
• Pelvic congestion syndrome in these patients is associated with significantly dilated ovarian veins.
• Addressing ovarian vein incompetence leads to symptom relief.

Conclusions:

• Perivulval varices and pelvic congestion syndrome can stem from ovarian vein incompetence.
• Intervention targeting proximal venous dilation offers a therapeutic solution for associated symptoms.