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Splenic abscess rupture postappendicectomy

Roshani Patel1, Aakash Pai, Ihsan Al-Shoek

  • 1Department of General Surgery, Heatherwood and Wexham Park Hospitals, Slough, UK. roshanipatel@doctors.net.uk

BMJ Case Reports
|July 18, 2012
PubMed

Insights

A rare splenic abscess rupture occurred after appendectomy due to appendix perforation. Prompt diagnosis and surgical intervention, including splenectomy, were life-saving for this patient with generalized peritonitis.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Surgical Pathology
  • Abdominal Surgery

Background:

  • Splenic abscesses are rare, occurring in 0.05%-0.7% of cases.
  • Splenic rupture secondary to abscess is exceptionally uncommon.
  • This case involves a splenic abscess resulting from contiguous spread following appendix perforation.

Observation:

  • A patient developed a splenic abscess postappendicectomy.
  • The splenic abscess subsequently ruptured.
  • The patient underwent emergency splenectomy and intensive care.

Findings:

  • Contiguous spread from perforated appendix can lead to splenic abscess.
  • Splenic abscess rupture is a rare but critical postoperative complication.
  • Early diagnosis and management of deteriorating surgical patients are crucial.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of recognizing rare complications of generalized peritonitis.
  • Rapid surgical intervention is vital for patient survival in such critical conditions.
  • Highlights the need for astute clinical assessment and timely operative management in surgical emergencies.

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