Interventional radiology: Partial splenic embolization

Abstract

Partial splenic embolization (PSE) is an effective treatment for complications associated with hypersplenism and portal hypertension, such as esophagogastric varices, pancytopenia, portal hypertensive gastropathy, and ascites. PSE is indicated for all complications associated with hypersplenism and portal hypertension. PSE should not be indicated for patients with Child’s C cirrhosis. A femoral artery approach is used for selective catheterization of the splenic artery. After an injection of antibiotics and steroids, embolization is achieved by injecting gelatin sponge cubes or coils. The most common complications after PSE are fever and leftsided abdominal pain, followed by retention of pleural effusion and ascites, splenic abscess, gastric ulcer, and others. There were no appreciable changes in the incidences of complications, but no patient had serious complications such as splenic abscess or portal vein thrombosis, which can frequently occur after splenectomy. PSE is a straightforward surgical technique associated with minimal complications and effectively improves hypersplenism and various complications associated with portal hypertension.