Is uterine artery embolization for cervical ectopic pregnancy always safe?

Abstract

The study objective was to assess the feasibility and the efficacy of bilateral uterine artery embolization (BUAE) for the treatment of cervical pregnancy. The design was a series of 3 cases of viable cervical pregnancy diagnosed by transvaginal ultrasonography and treated by means of BUAE and subsequent uterine curettage. Three women with viable cervical pregnancy underwent BUAE and subsequent uterine curettage in the department of obstetrics and gynecology, High Risk Pregnancy Center, University "Federico II" of Naples. Measurements included surgical outcomes and preservation of fertility. The treatment was effective in all cases. Two patients resumed normal menstruation about 1 month after the procedure, whereas 1 patient underwent a hysterectomy 2 weeks after embolization because of acute ischemic degeneration of a concomitant myoma. The conservative management of cervical pregnancy with angiographic BUAE is a feasible and effective option, even if subsequent hysterectomy may be required. Counseling is necessary.