Management of embolic splenic abscess secondary to aortic valve endocarditis – case report and review of literature

Abstract

Background Splenic abscess is a serious complication associated with infective endocarditis. There is still contradicting evidence regarding the optimal treatment pathway including timing of valve intervention and the approach for managing splenic foci. Case presentation We present a case of a hybrid staged approach in which we successfully performed a laparoscopic splenectomy following percutaneous abscess drainage and a delayed aortic valve replacement. Conclusions A multidisciplinary teamwork is fundamental in providing optimal care for patients with distant complications associated with infective endocarditis. Our hybrid approach seems safe and feasible.