What is splenic artery embolization?
Splenic (artery) embolization is an endovascular technique for treatment of splenic and splenic artery pathology as an alternative to splenic artery ligation or splenectomy. It often results in successfully treating the underlying pathology, while maintaining at least partial splenic function.
How long does embolization procedure take?
Depending on how many blood vessels need treatment, the whole process takes from 30 minutes to a few hours. You can expect to remain in bed for six to eight hours after the procedure to let your body rest and recover.
How is splenic artery embolization done?
Depending on vascular anatomy, a microcatheter system is used to select the distal main splenic artery or splenic artery branches for embolization, with postembolization angiograms completed from the base catheter.
Which type of splenic artery embolization will cause infarction?
Interestingly, distal splenic artery embolization is associated with a higher risk of splenic infarction, and permanent embolization materials have superior outcomes compared with temporary embolization materials.
How is a proximal splenic artery embolization performed?
Proximal splenic artery embolization, distal splenic artery embolization, or both can be performed. A microcatheter is used to select the splenic artery or its branches.
When do platelet counts triple after splenic embolization?
Platelet counts tripled 1 week after procedure. Patients are often given broad-spectrum pre-procedural antibiotics (cefoperazone, 1 g IV). For partial splenic embolization, these antibiotics are continued for at least 5 days after the procedure.
How are coil packs used in splenic embolization?
For proximal embolization ( Fig. 1 ), the goal is to decrease perfusion pressure by occluding the main splenic artery, typically with a coil pack just distal to the main pancreatic artery branches [ 26 ]. Placement of a coil pack preserves the pancreatic collateral pathway and also preserves splenic perfusion through the collaterals.
What are the branches of the splenic artery?
The splenic artery has many branches that supply the pancreatic body and tail. The first large branch is the dorsal pancreatic artery, and the second large branch is the greater pancreatic artery (or arteria pancreatica magna), which ari.