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World Journal of Surgery

Published in:

01-03-2008

Complications Associated With Embolization in the Treatment of Blunt Splenic Injury

Authors: Shih-Chi Wu, Ray-Jade Chen, Albert D. Yang, Cheng-Cheng Tung, Kun-Hua Lee

Published in: World Journal of Surgery | Issue 3/2008

Abstract

Background

Nonoperative management (NOM) of blunt splenic injuries is widely accepted, and the use of splenic artery embolization (SAE) has become a valuable adjunct to NOM. We retrospectively review and discuss the complications derived from SAE.

Materials and methods

The medical records of 152 consecutive patients with blunt splenic trauma admitted to our trauma center during a 33-month period were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were managed according to an established algorithm. The record review focused on the method of patient management (operative versus nonoperative) and use of SAE. The complications encountered following SAE are discussed in detail.

Results

Altogether, 73 patients underwent emergency surgery (58 splenectomies, 15 splenorrhaphies), and 79 patients had NOM. Of the 79 patients with NOM, 58 were successfully treated; 2 patients required splenectomy after 24 hours. The remaining 21 patients had SAE, including 18 distal and 3 proximal embolizations. Major complications occurred in 28.5% of the SAE-treated patients and included total splenic infarction, splenic atrophy, and postprocedure bleeding. Minor complications occurred in 61.9% of the patients and included fever, pleural effusion, and partial splenic infarction.

Conclusion

SAE is considered a valuable adjunct to NOM in the treatment of blunt splenic injuries; however, risks of major and minor complications do exist, and SAE should be offered with caution and followed up appropriately.

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Title: Complications Associated With Embolization in the Treatment of Blunt Splenic Injury
Authors: Shih-Chi Wu
Ray-Jade Chen
Albert D. Yang
Cheng-Cheng Tung
Kun-Hua Lee
Publication date: 01-03-2008
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: World Journal of Surgery / Issue 3/2008
Print ISSN: 0364-2313
Electronic ISSN: 1432-2323
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00268-007-9322-x

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Complications Associated With Embolization in the Treatment of Blunt Splenic Injury

Abstract

Background

Materials and methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Materials and methods

Results

Conclusion

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