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Updated: Jul 16, 2025

Combined Supine and Standing Imaging for Varicocele: An Improved Diagnostic Approach
Published on: November 22, 2024
Varicocele Secondary to Splenic Vein Compression by Intragastric Balloon
Abdulrahman Alangari1,2, Musab Alamri3, Toufic Semaan2
1Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Abstract:
Intragastric balloons (IGBs) are commonly used for weight loss by mechanically distending the stomach. We present a case of a 35-year-old man who developed a left-sided varicocele 1 week after IGB insertion. Imaging revealed splenic vein compression and possible thrombosis. Urgent removal of the balloon was performed. After 1 week from removal, the patient showed significant improvement, with complete splenic vein recanalization. This case highlights the importance of early recognition of a rare complication of IGBs to avoid severe outcomes. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case linking IGBs to splenic vein compression and varicocele.
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