A case of splenic rupture a week after appendectomy

Abstract

A 52-year-old woman developed atraumatic splenic rupture 1 week after appendectomy for perforated appendicitis. The emergency computed tomography (CT) revealed abscessed appendicitis. We performed a laparoscopic appendectomy and meticulous peritoneal lavage of the right lower quadrant peritonitis. Intravenous antibiotics were prolonged after surgery. Six days after appendectomy, she presented acute signs of hypotensive shock associated with abdominal pain and blood in the pelvic drain. Emergency CT scan revealed splenic rupture with major hemoperitoneum and active splenic bleeding. Embolization of the splenic artery was initially successful, but she relapsed into shock a few hours later. We proceeded to splenectomy. Pathological examination only found inflammation. She was discharged 1 month after the initial operation. Spontaneous splenic rupture is a rare but life-threatening complication of appendicitis with major peritonitis. It must be identified and treated immediately. Colic microbiota could be responsible of acute splenitis and congestion after a bacteremia.