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Complications arising from splenic embolization after blunt splenic trauma
Akpofure Peter Ekeh1, Mary C McCarthy, Randy J Woods
1Department of Surgery, Wright State University, Miami Valley Hospital, 1 Wyoming St., CHE 7000, Dayton, OH 45459, USA. peter.ekeh@wright.edu
American Journal of Surgery
|March 29, 2005
Summary
Splenic artery embolization (SAE) is effective for nonoperative management of splenic trauma. While generally safe, patients may experience significant major and minor complications following SAE.
Area of Science:
- Trauma Surgery
- Interventional Radiology
Background:
- Nonoperative management (NOM) is standard for stable splenic trauma.
- Splenic artery embolization (SAE) is a common adjunct to NOM.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine complications associated with splenic artery embolization (SAE) in patients with splenic trauma.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 284 splenic trauma patients at a level I trauma center.
- Detailed analysis of 15 patients who underwent SAE as part of NOM.
Main Results:
- No NOM failures occurred in patients undergoing SAE.
- Major complications (27%) included splenic bleeding, infarction, abscess, and renal insufficiency.
- Minor complications (53%) included fever, pleural effusions, and coil migration.
Conclusions:
- SAE is an effective and safe procedure for splenic trauma.
- Clinicians should be aware of potential major and minor complications after SAE.