Color Doppler evaluation of blood flow changes in leiomyomas after uterine artery ligation.
OBJECTIVE
To detect possible changes in main blood vessels within leiomyomas after uterine artery ligation using color Doppler sonography.


METHODS
Blood flow in main leiomyoma blood vessels was measured before and after the procedure in 14 women who also had abnormal uterine bleeding, pelvic pain or pressure, and/or anemia.


RESULTS
Of the 14 patients, 13 reported complete disappearance of preoperative pain or pressure and 1 reported significant relief. Within 1 week to 4 months after uterine artery ligation, major blood flow within leiomyomas had significantly decreased in all patients. Eight months after the procedure, 1 of the women became pregnant.


CONCLUSIONS
Laparoscopic uterine artery ligation via a lateral retroperitoneal technique is a safe and effective treatment for leiomyomas. Color Doppler sonography verified the ability of the procedure to diminish blood flow within leiomyomas in all patients.
Lee
Chao-Hsi
CH
Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Yi-Da medical hospital, Yi-Da Road, Jiau-shu Tsuen, Yan-chau Shiang, No. 123 Dapi Road, Niaosong Shiang, Kaohsiung County 833, Taiwan.
Chang
Chi-Chang
CC
Kuo
Yi-Ting
YT
D000328:Adult; D001158:Arteries / Q000601:surgery; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007889:Leiomyoma / Q000098:blood supply* / Q000601:surgery; D008026:Ligation; D008875:Middle Aged; D012039:Regional Blood Flow; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D018615:Ultrasonography, Doppler, Color / Q000379:methods*; D014594:Uterine Neoplasms / Q000098:blood supply* / Q000601:surgery; D014599:Uterus / Q000098:blood supply* / Q000601:surgery