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[Splenic artery aneurysm. Two successfully operated cases]
Minerva Cardioangiologica
|December 4, 1998
Summary
Splenic artery aneurysms often present asymptomatically but carry high rupture mortality. Early diagnosis via imaging and timely intervention, surgical or embolic, are crucial for favorable outcomes in splenic artery aneurysm management.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Diagnostic Imaging
- Gastrointestinal Surgery
Background:
- Splenic artery aneurysms (SAAs) are rare but can lead to life-threatening rupture.
- Rupture of SAAs is associated with significant morbidity and mortality.
- Prompt diagnosis and appropriate management are critical for patient survival.
Observation:
- Two cases of splenic artery aneurysm are presented, one asymptomatic and one presenting with shock due to rupture.
- Diagnostic modalities included ultrasonography (US) and computed tomography (TC).
- Both patients underwent surgical intervention, including splenic artery ligation and splenectomy.
Findings:
- Asymptomatic SAAs can be detected incidentally through abdominal imaging.
- Ruptured SAAs often require emergency surgical intervention.
- Angiography is the gold standard for diagnosis and can guide embolization treatment.
- Surgical treatment is indicated for aneurysms exceeding 2.5 cm in diameter.
- Selective embolization is a viable non-operative alternative for high-risk patients.
Implications:
- Emphasizes the importance of early detection of splenic artery aneurysms to prevent rupture.
- Highlights the efficacy of both surgical and endovascular (embolization) treatments for SAAs.
- Suggests that imaging techniques like US and TC are valuable for initial diagnosis, with angiography being definitive.
- Underscores the need for prompt management, especially in cases of rupture, to reduce mortality.