Post-Bariatric Splenic Complications; Diagnosis and Treatment. A Systematic Review

This systematic review intends to evaluate incidence and symptoms of post-bariatric splenic complications as well as best available modalities establishing the diagnosis and management protocols. A systematic literature search was performed in electronic database until March 2022. A total of 41 articles were included on the subject of splenic complications following bariatric/metabolic surgery (BMS). Splenic abscess was the most common splenic complications (44.2%) after BMS and leak was the most common reported etiology of the splenic abscess. Fever and abdominal pain were the most common presenting symptom in all splenic complications and CT scan was the most common diagnostic modality. Splenic complications after BMS are relatively rare but may lead to dangerous consequences. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can prevent potentially life-threatening outcomes.