Egg-shell like Calcification as a Protective Factor for Splenic Artery Aneurysm Dilatation

Masaya Sano1, Katsuyuki Hoshina1, Takuya Kawahara2

  • 1Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku Tokyo, Japan.

Insights

Egg-shell appearance in splenic artery aneurysms (SAA) independently slows dilatation. This calcification pattern limits growth in larger aneurysms and those with portal hypertension, suggesting a protective role.

Area of Science:

  • Vascular Surgery
  • Radiology
  • Gastroenterology

Background:

  • Splenic artery aneurysms (SAA) are rare vascular malformations.
  • Asymptomatic SAAs require evaluation for factors influencing their progression.
  • Understanding dilatation factors is crucial for patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify factors associated with the dilatation of asymptomatic splenic artery aneurysms.
  • To analyze the impact of comorbidities and anatomical features on SAA growth.
  • To determine predictors of SAA dilatation rate.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of 70 SAA lesions in 59 patients (2001-2018).
  • Measurement of SAA dilatation rate (mm/year).
  • Evaluation of factors including egg-shell appearance, portal hypertension (PHT), and aneurysm diameter using regression models.

Main Results:

  • Mean dilatation rate was 0.26 mm/year over a 4.6-year follow-up.
  • Univariate analysis showed PHT, egg-shell appearance, and diameter >20 mm were associated with dilatation.
  • Multivariate analysis identified egg-shell appearance as an independent inverse risk factor for dilatation.

Conclusions:

  • Egg-shell appearance in SAA is an independent inverse predictor of dilatation rate.
  • The presence of egg-shell appearance attenuates the effect of PHT and large diameter on SAA growth.
  • Calcification patterns significantly influence SAA progression dynamics.
Abstract

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