Volume 49, Issue 1 March 2025 JVU 491-33 | Retrospective Case Series in Patients with Suspected Pelvic Venous Disorder-Volume 49, Issue 1 March 2025 JVU 491-33 | Retrospective Case Series in Patients with Suspected Pelvic Venous Disorder

Volume 49, Issue 1 March 2025 JVU 491-33 | Retrospective Case Series in Patients with Suspected Pelvic Venous Disorder

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The study presented in the Journal for Vascular Ultrasound focuses on the use of ultrasound in diagnosing and managing pelvic venous disorders (PVDs), particularly in women with chronic pelvic pain. PVDs, which often manifest as pelvic pain, varicosities, and other venous insufficiency symptoms, are common in multiparous women due to changes from pregnancy. The research conducted by Marley Anderson and colleagues at Washington State University and other associated institutions outlines a retrospective review of three cases where duplex ultrasound imaging was key in diagnosing and treating these complex disorders.<br /><br />The three cases involved multiparous women aged 29 to 42, each presenting with varying degrees of pelvic discomfort and signs of venous insufficiency. The first case highlighted ovarian vein reflux with significant symptom improvement post-embolization. The second case demonstrated extensive pelvic varicosities and vein compression, where coil embolization and stenting provided some relief, although some symptoms persisted. The third case involved ovarian vein dilation and varicosities, with the patient undergoing embolization and reporting significant symptom improvement.<br /><br />Ultrasound served as a primary diagnostic tool, revealing conditions like ovarian vein reflux and May-Thurner syndrome, leading to targeted treatments such as coil embolization or stenting. The study underscores the utility of duplex imaging as a non-invasive approach to evaluate and manage PVDs efficiently, despite the procedures' potential risks, such as stent migration and worsening symptoms during pregnancy. The authors advocate for further studies to establish standard treatment pathways while emphasizing ultrasound's essential role in managing suspected pelvic venous disorders.

Keywords

pelvic venous disorders

ultrasound

chronic pelvic pain

multiparous women

duplex imaging

ovarian vein reflux

embolization

May-Thurner syndrome

venous insufficiency

Washington State University