title: Successful embolization of vulval varices arising from the external pudendal vein†.
abstract: Varicose veins in the vulvar and peri-vulvar area are seen in 4% of women and most commonly seen during pregnancy. It is thought to be as a direct result of the presence of ovarian and pelvic varicosities. Diagnostic modalities used in the investigation of this condition included pelvic ultrasound, computed venography, magnetic resonance venography and catheter-directed venography. The treatment options in the past were hysterectomy and/or ligation of ovarian veins by open or laparoscopic approach. Modern techniques involve embolization of the varicosity via radiological techniques. In this case the patient presented with vulval and upper thigh varices associated with pelvic pain. They were located to be from the superficial external pudendal vein, which is not a common source but worth considering with other causes. They were treated successfully with fluoroscopy-guided embolization.
authors.affiliation: Department of General Surgery, Ayr University Hospital, Ayrshire and Arran NHS Trust, South Ayrshire KA6 6DX, UK.
authors.forename: Muhammad I
authors.initials: MI
authors.lastname: Aslam
authors.affiliation: Department of General Surgery, Ayr University Hospital, Ayrshire and Arran NHS Trust, South Ayrshire KA6 6DX, UK susieflexer@gmail.com.
authors.forename: Susannah M
authors.initials: SM
authors.lastname: Flexer
authors.affiliation: Department of Vascular & General Surgery, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Tyne and Wear NE9 6SX, UK.
authors.forename: Rodrego
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Figueiredo
authors.affiliation: Department of Vascular & General Surgery, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Tyne and Wear NE9 6SX, UK.
authors.forename: Hamdy Y
authors.initials: HY
authors.lastname: Ashour
authors.affiliation: Department of Vascular & General Surgery, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Tyne and Wear NE9 6SX, UK.
authors.forename: Vish
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Bhattacharya