Arterial venous malformations (AVM) of the uterus are uncommon entities and should be considered in patients who present with profuse genital bleeding. There are two types of uterine AVM: acquired and congenital. Acquired uterine AVMs are conformed by communications between the uterine arteries and the myometrial veins, and are caused by an iatrogenic event or a pathological condition. Congenital AVMs are the result of abnormal development of primitive vessels that result in connections between pelvic arteries and veins in the uterus without an interconnecting capillary bed. Ultrasonography is a noninvasive diagnostic method able to demonstrate and characterize AVMs of the uterus. AVM in the pelvis may be noted incidentally by computed tomography (CT) of the pelvis, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is frequently used to confirm and further characterize the sonographic findings of uterine AVM. Catheter angiography and embolization are very effective in defining the vascular anatomy and treating uterine vascular abnormalities.

Biologic and technical factors may predispose to shunt failure. The combination of improved technique and expandable PTFE has significantly improved TIPS patency. The need for follow-up venography and secondary interventions has been reduced significantly as a result of improved shunt patency.

Uterine fibroids are common tumors of the female pelvis. Uterine artery embolization (UAE) is an effective treatment of symptomatic uterine leiomyoma in the appropriate candidates, reducing or eliminating leiomyoma-related symptoms of bleeding, bulk, and/or pain. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used to assess women with symptoms potentially attributable to uterine leiomyomas, and help to determine who is an appropriate candidate for UAE. Because of soft tissue characterization, multiplanar imaging capabilities, and enhancement, MR imaging not only accurately detects and characterizes uterine leiomyomas but also may predict who will benefit from the embolization. MRI ability to detect coexistent uterine or pelvic pathology may change the diagnosis and treatment management of patients being evaluated for UAE.