Persistent vaginal discharge after uterine artery embolization for fibroid tumors: cause of the condition, magnetic resonance imaging appearance, and surgical treatment

Objective The purpose of this study was to establish the cause of and treatment for chronic vaginal discharge after uterine artery embolization. Study design This was a retrospective review of the diagnosis and treatment of the procedure at 3 months. Results In 94% of patients, the condition either completely resolved or diminished to a nonproblematic level. Conclusion The persistent discharge in these patients was due to a superficial cavity within the infarcted fibroid tumor that was communicating with the endometrial cavity through a hole in the endometrium. This situation is indicated by a specific appearance on TII sagittal magnetic resonance images. Hysteroscopic resection of the necrotic fibroid tumor cavity was usually curative.