Splenic and partial hepatic necrosis after vascular occlusion

A 74-year-old woman underwent two operations to correct an aortoduodenal fistula and to have an axillofemoral bypass graft inserted; these required temporary vascular occlusion. Her hepatic function test results began deteriorating. Initial and follow-up Tc-99m sulfur colloid studies revealed activity in the kidneys, consistent with disseminated intravascular coagulation. There was significant radiocolloid in the bone marrow and lungs, suggesting severe hepatic dysfunction. The spleen was not demonstrable on dynamic images or static views. In addition, there was a significant lateral hepatic defect, with a "lung overlap." The splenic lack of function and the hepatic lesion were due to necrosis (demonstrable on CT imaging), likely related to the prior vascular clamping.