Efficacy of Endovascular Therapy for Chronic Pelvic Pain in Patients with Suspected Pelvic Congestion Syndrome

• Published in: Nihon Rinsho Geka Gakkai Zasshi (Journal of Japan Surgical Association) Vol. 78; no. 8; pp. 1699 - 1703
• Main Authors: KAWAKITA, Issei, HASHIGUCHI, Hitoki, SASAKI, Akihiko
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: Japanese
• Published: Japan Surgical Association 2017
• Subjects: chronic pelvic pain; endovascular therapy; pelvic congestion syndrome
• DOI: 10.3919/jjsa.78.1699
• ISSN: 1345-2843

Objective : This study aimed to evaluate venography for diagnosis and endovascular therapy in patients with suspected pelvic congestion syndrome (PCS) who present with chronic pelvic pain of undetermined origin based on previous testing and in whom computed tomography (CT) shows ovarian vein dilation and pelvic varices. Patients and methods : This study included 12 patients with chronic pelvic pain of undetermined origin based on prior evaluation who were then referred to our department between January 2014 and December 2016 and in whom CT showed ovarian vein dilation and pelvic varices. Selective bilateral venography of the ovarian and internal iliac veins was performed. Patients who met the diagnostic criteria for PCS underwent endoscopic therapy of the venous trunk responsible for symptoms. Results : Ten patients were diagnosed with PCS based on venography, and endovascular treatment (coil embolization) was performed. All patients had relief of their preoperative symptoms without any recurrence. Conclusion : We recommend venography for diagnosis and endovascular therapy in patients with suspected PCS who present with chronic pelvic pain and in whom CT shows ovarian vein dilation and pelvic varices.