Euro-Chinese consensus on accessory cavitated uterine malformation^*,†

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Medicine
• Gynecological Surgery
• Medical Diagnostics

Background:

• Accessory cavitated uterine malformations (ACUMs) are rare, poorly understood obstructive uterine anomalies.
• Aetiopathogenesis is hypothesized to involve Müllerian ductal tissue duplication near the round ligament.
• Classification requires refinement due to rare variants.

Purpose of the Study:

• Develop good clinical practice recommendations for ACUM.
• Standardize terminology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment.
• Improve management of this rare condition.

Main Methods:

• Consensus development by Chinese and European experts.
• Approval by the European Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy.
• Recommendations based on best available evidence and expert opinion.

Main Results:

• ACUMs present with dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, or pelvic/gastrointestinal pain.
• Diagnostic criteria include specific myometrial lesions identified via ultrasound and MRI.
• Surgical excision is the definitive treatment, with minimally invasive approaches preferred.

Conclusions:

• Consensus provides evidence-based recommendations for ACUM management.
• Gaps in understanding and management necessitate further research.
• Optimizing ACUM care requires continued investigation and clinical guidance.