Selective arterial embolization for the control of traumatic splenic bleeding

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Surgery
• Interventional Radiology
• Surgical Oncology

Background:

• Splenic trauma is a common surgical emergency.
• Traditional management often involves splenectomy, increasing infection risk.
• Less invasive spleen-preserving techniques are needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of selective arterial embolization in controlling splenic bleeding.
• To assess the long-term effects of embolization on splenic tissue and vasculature.
• To determine the feasibility of embolization as an alternative to splenectomy.

Main Methods:

• Artificial splenic trauma was induced in 10 dogs.
• Selective embolization of the splenic artery was performed using embolic material.
• Bleeding control, survival, and splenic integrity were monitored via angiography and histology.

Main Results:

• Embolization successfully controlled hemorrhage in all dogs within 3 hours.
• Seven dogs survived for 2 months with evidence of splenic healing.
• Angiography revealed recanalization of treated arteries, with reduced infarction size and no identifiable trauma site.

Conclusions:

• Selective arterial embolization is a feasible and effective method for managing splenic bleeding.
• The technique promotes splenic healing and parenchyma preservation.
• Embolization offers a spleen-preserving alternative for select patients, particularly those with contraindications to splenectomy.