A systematic review on clinical features and management of true giant splenic artery aneurysms

True giant splenic artery aneurysms (GSAAs) >5 cm are rare and present unique therapeutic challenges. The aim of this study was to evaluate the anatomic and clinical characteristics of these lesions and the current surgical and endovascular techniques available for their treatment.

A systematic review of the literature from 2004 to 2018 and the personal experience of the authors with management of GSAAs are presented. A total of 92 GSAA cases were reviewed. Analyses were performed on anatomic and clinical features and management modalities and outcomes of GSAA, including reintervention, morbidity, and mortality.

GSAA presented at a mean age of 56.1 ± 17.3 years, with no sex predilection; 73% were symptomatic at presentation. Abdominal pain was the presenting symptom in >50% of cases; 34% percent were ruptured, with an overall mortality rate of 12.5%. This group often presented with gastrointestinal bleeding or hemodynamic collapse. The aneurysms were almost evenly distributed across the splenic artery and were not uncommonly associated with arteriovenous fistula formation (8.7%). There were 88 patients who had surgical (53.4%), endovascular (44.3%), or combination (2.3%) therapy. The most commonly performed procedure was aneurysmectomy and splenectomy with or without additional resection. Overall, surgical treatment had a lower morbidity (P = .041) than endovascular therapy and comparable reintervention and mortality rates.

GSAAs are uncommon vascular lesions, with distinct clinical features and aneurysm characteristics. Considering their high risk of rupture, timely diagnosis and management are essential to attain a satisfactory outcome. Surgery remains the standard treatment of these lesions. Endovascular intervention is a viable alternative in high-risk patients, particularly those with lesions <10 cm or with anomalous origin.