Pros and cons of splenic artery embolization after mechanical splenic injury - comparison of methods

Abstract

Introduction: Mechanical damage of the spleen is a serious therapeutic problem often leading to the death of
the patient. The constant development of therapeutic methods makes it possible to reduce the percentage of
severe conditions after damage to this organ. Great hopes are placed on minimal-invasive treatments and
procedures such as embolization.
Aim of the study: Compare available research as well as publications and identify advantages and
disadvantages of splenic artery embolization in relation to other methods.
Methods and materials: We reviewed the literature available on PubMed and Google Scholar using the words
"splenic artery embolization," "blunt splenic trauma," "splenectomy," "splenectomy after trauma," "nonoperative
treatment of blunt splenic trauma".
Results: Embolization of the splenic artery combines relatively low invasiveness with very high therapeutic
options that were once reserved exclusively for surgical management. Embolization significantly reduces
mortality in the worst prognosis patients and is recommended during non-operative management.
Conclusion: Embolization procedure is found to be superior to other types of management on almost every
level. In addition, this procedure is an ideal follow-up to non-operative management. However, embolization as
well as any other procedure carried out in the spleen should be considered individually and on many levels
because of the important functions performed by this organ.
Key words: Blunt trauma to the spleen, embolization, mechanical injury of the spleen, splenic artery
embolization complications;