Managing Splenic Artery Pseudoaneurysms—An Experience from a Developing Country. A Retrospective Review

Abstract

Objectives: Splenic artery pseudoaneurysm is a rare but potentially fatal condition. Early diagnosis and intervention are the key steps in the management of this condition. We have reviewed our institutionʼs 4-year data regarding the presentation and management of this condition. Methods: We conducted a prospective review of the records of 10 patients who presented to our institute from January 2018 to December 2021 with a splenic artery pseudoaneurysm. We found one patient with a true aneurysm, whom we excluded from the study. Results: This study included seven male and two female patients with a mean age of 47.7 years. Six patients presented to the emergency department with bleeding secondary to rupture aneurysm, which is the most common reason for admission. Pancreatitis was found to be the most common cause for splenic artery pseudoaneurysm (five patients). Computed tomography angiogram remained the modality of choice for diagnosing splenic artery pseudoaneurysm. All patients were successfully managed with endovascular intervention. Conclusion: Splenic artery pseudoaneurysm is usually a rare complication of pancreatitis, which is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Timely diagnosis and intervention are the keys to successful management. Endovascular embolization should be the first-line therapy in splenic artery pseudoaneurysm.