Location
Suwanee, GA
Start Date
17-4-2026 12:00 PM
End Date
17-4-2026 1:00 PM
Description
Introduction
Anatomic variation of the uterine artery has important implications for interventional procedures such as uterine artery embolization (UAE). The uterine artery classically arises from the anterior division of the internal iliac artery; however, variant origins and accessory uterine arteries have been described. Failure to recognize such variations may contribute to incomplete embolization and persistent symptoms. This report describes a cadaveric case demonstrating a proximally arising uterine artery with an accessory uterine artery in the setting of a fibroid uterus.
Methods
Routine pelvic dissection was performed on a female cadaver during anatomical study. The pelvic vasculature was exposed using standard blunt and sharp dissection techniques. Branches of the internal iliac arterial system were identified and traced to their distal distributions. The uterus and adnexal structures were examined for gross pathology, and vascular findings were documented photographically.
Results
Gross examination revealed an enlarged uterus with multiple intramural and subserosal leiomyomas. On the right, the uterine artery originated proximally from the internal iliac artery, arising earlier than the typical anterior division branching point. An accessory uterine artery was also identified, arising independently and contributing additional arterial supply to the right side of the uterus near the level of the internal os.
On the left side, the uterine artery demonstrated a typical branching pattern from the internal iliac artery without evidence of accessory uterine arterial supply.
Discussion
Recognition of variant uterine arterial anatomy is essential for procedural planning in uterine artery embolization. A proximally originating uterine artery may alter catheterization strategy or be overlooked during selective angiography. Accessory uterine arteries can provide persistent perfusion to fibroids if not identified and embolized. This case underscores the importance of careful angiographic evaluation of pelvic arterial anatomy to ensure complete treatment in patients undergoing UAE, potentially reducing the risk of incomplete embolization and subsequent symptom persistence.
Embargo Period
6-1-2026
Included in
Proximal Origin and Accessory Uterine Artery in a Fibroid Uterus: Implications for Uterine Artery Embolization
Suwanee, GA
Introduction
Anatomic variation of the uterine artery has important implications for interventional procedures such as uterine artery embolization (UAE). The uterine artery classically arises from the anterior division of the internal iliac artery; however, variant origins and accessory uterine arteries have been described. Failure to recognize such variations may contribute to incomplete embolization and persistent symptoms. This report describes a cadaveric case demonstrating a proximally arising uterine artery with an accessory uterine artery in the setting of a fibroid uterus.
Methods
Routine pelvic dissection was performed on a female cadaver during anatomical study. The pelvic vasculature was exposed using standard blunt and sharp dissection techniques. Branches of the internal iliac arterial system were identified and traced to their distal distributions. The uterus and adnexal structures were examined for gross pathology, and vascular findings were documented photographically.
Results
Gross examination revealed an enlarged uterus with multiple intramural and subserosal leiomyomas. On the right, the uterine artery originated proximally from the internal iliac artery, arising earlier than the typical anterior division branching point. An accessory uterine artery was also identified, arising independently and contributing additional arterial supply to the right side of the uterus near the level of the internal os.
On the left side, the uterine artery demonstrated a typical branching pattern from the internal iliac artery without evidence of accessory uterine arterial supply.
Discussion
Recognition of variant uterine arterial anatomy is essential for procedural planning in uterine artery embolization. A proximally originating uterine artery may alter catheterization strategy or be overlooked during selective angiography. Accessory uterine arteries can provide persistent perfusion to fibroids if not identified and embolized. This case underscores the importance of careful angiographic evaluation of pelvic arterial anatomy to ensure complete treatment in patients undergoing UAE, potentially reducing the risk of incomplete embolization and subsequent symptom persistence.