The Society of Interventional Radiology (SIR) published new practice guidance for the treatment of chronic pelvic pain (CPP) in women who suffer from a pelvic venous disorder. The guidance was published online in the Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology (JVIR).
The document describes that pelvic venous disorders (PeVDs) encompass a range of symptoms caused by conditions such as venous reflux or obstruction of the inferior vena cava (IVC), ovarian, iliac and or left renal veins. Many women with these conditions suffer from CPP, which can be treated by an interventional radiologist. Due to venous-origin, pelvic pain is often confused with gynaecological issues, meaning many women go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed, prolonging their suffering.
This document provides evidence-based guidance for healthcare providers on the clinical evaluation of venous-origin chronic pelvic pain (VO-CPP), appropriate diagnostic and pre-procedural imaging, and appropriate treatments tailored to the diagnosis—ranging from pharmacological treatment to interventions, such as embolization or stenting.
“While many people assume chronic pelvic pain is gynaecological in nature, studies show that more than 80% of women with CPP do not have a gynaecological problem,” said SIR president Robert A Lookstein (Mount Sinai Health System, New York, USA). “Because of the misconceptions about the causes of CPP, it can be hard for women to obtain a diagnosis and find treatment. We hope this guidance changes that dynamic and ensures that women get access to the care they need without delay.”
The document was developed by SIR’s Women’s Health Clinical Specialty Council and Venous Clinical Specialty Council, in collaboration with the SIR Guidelines and Statements Division.
