INCIDENCE OF HEMORRHAGE IN PATIENTS UNDERGOING SECOND-TRIMESTER INDUCED ABORTIONS WITH AND WITHOUT PROPHYLACTIC UTERINE ARTERY EMBOLIZATION

Abstract

Background: Hemorrhage is a significant risk associated with second-trimester induced abortions. Prophylactic uterine artery embolization (PUAE) has been proposed as a preventive measure to reduce this risk. This study aims to compare the incidence of hemorrhage in patients undergoing second-trimester induced abortions with and without PUAE.

Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted, including 500 patients who underwent second-trimester induced abortions at a tertiary care center. Patients were divided into two groups: those who received PUAE (n=250) and those who did not (n=250). The primary outcome was the incidence of hemorrhage, defined as blood loss exceeding 500 mL or requiring blood transfusion. Secondary outcomes included the duration of hospital stay and postoperative complications.

Results: The incidence of hemorrhage was significantly lower in the PUAE group compared to the non-PUAE group (4% vs. 15%, p<0.001). Patients in the PUAE group also had a shorter hospital stay (mean 2.1 days vs. 3.5 days, p<0.01) and fewer postoperative complications (6% vs. 12%, p=0.02).

Conclusion: Prophylactic uterine artery embolization significantly reduces the incidence of hemorrhage in patients undergoing second-trimester induced abortions. These findings support the use of PUAE as a preventive measure in high-risk patients.