Learning objectives
To review the anatomy of the splenic artery and the spectrum of indications for splenic artery embolization.To describe the different techniques for splenic artery embolization and possible complications.
Background
Splenic artery embolization is becoming increasingly common in interventional radiology. It is performed to treat different emergent or chronic diseases, including abdominal trauma, hypersplenism, splenic arterial aneurysm and pseudoaneurysm.The limitations of each possible management approach have yet to be clearly defined. We will try to shed some light on the situation.Splenicvascular anatomy Figure 1, 2 & 3The spleen plays an important role in the immune system, defending against microorganisms that enter the circulation. Thus, avoiding splenectomy can help preserve immune function.The splenic artery supplies the...
Imaging findings OR Procedure details
Our experienceBetween January 2001 and July 2009, we treated 15 patients (10 men and 5 women; mean age=58 years, range 33-80) , by splenic artery embolization. All patients had undergone abdominal CT prior to the procedure. The different diagnoses were: posttraumatic splenic injuries in 7 patients, splenic artery pseudoaneurysm due to pancreatitis in 3, hypersplenism in 3, and aneurysms in 2.Materials used for embolization included gelatin sponge pledgets, polyvinyl alcohol particles, and coils. We treated 7 patients using only coils, 2 using PVA particles and...
Conclusion
Splenic arterial embolization may be used to treat a wide range of pathologic entities, so interventional radiologists require a thorough knowledge of the common indications, techniques, and complications.We also believe that specific interdisciplinary protocols for each condition are mandatory.
Personal Information
A. Zugazaga♦, P. Bermúdez*, A. Darnell**, A. Alguersuari*, D. Rodriguez♦, A. Torremadé♦, J. Branera*, J. R. Fortuño*♦ Radiology Resident* Vascular and Interventional Radiology Staff** Abdominal Radiology StaffUDIAT-CD, Institut Universitari Parc Taulí - UABParc Taulí, 108208
[email protected]@tauli.cat
References
Haller JJ, et al. Nonoperative management of solid organ injuries in children: is it safe? Ann Surg 1994; 210:625-628.Raikhlin A, et al. Imaging and transcatheter arterial embolization for traumatic splenic injuries: review of the literature. J can chir, 2008 (51); 6: 466-472.Anderson S, et al. Blunt Splenic Trauma: Delayed-Phase CT for Differentiation of Active Hemorrhage from Contained Vascular Injury in Patients1. Radiology 2007; 243 (1): 88-95.Naoum JJ, et al. Concomitant intraoperative splenic artery embolization and laparoscopic splenectomy versus laparoscopic splenectomy: comparison of treatment outcome. The...