Embolization for hypersplenism
Embolization of the splenic artery in hypersplenism is a minimally invasive intervention that is performed when the size of the spleen is increased.
Embolization of the splenic artery in hypersplenism is a minimally invasive intervention that is conducted when the size of the spleen is increased (hypersplenism syndrome) – this condition most often develops in liver diseases. As a result, portal hypertension (increased pressure in the portal vein), liver cirrhosis or portal vein thrombosis occur. A complication of portal hypertension is varicose veins of the esophagus and stomach, which often leads to severe bleeding.
How is splenic artery embolization performed in hypersplenism?
Partial embolization of the splenic artery is a minimally invasive intervention in which special materials (emboli and coils) are introduced into the splenic artery through a thin catheter inserted through a 2-millimeter puncture of the skin, which leads to partial occlusion of vessels in the spleen and slowing of blood flow through the splenic artery. The result of this is a decrease in the amount of functioning spleen tissue and, thus, an improvement or normalization of the general blood test, a decrease in the degree of portal hypertension, a slowdown in the growth of varicose veins of the esophagus and stomach, and a decrease in the risk of repeated bleeding.
Who needs to undergo splenic artery embolization?
The need for embolization of the splenic artery is determined by a multidisciplinary team of doctors (surgeon, endoscopist, hematologist, interventional radiologist) based on various examinations.
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- You can wear whatever you want when going to the hospital. During the procedure, you
- will be dressed in a hospital gown.
- Leave your valuables at home.
- One day before the arranged date, your doctor or nurse will tell you what you can and сan eat or drink before the procedure.
- Ask your doctor what medications you should take on the day of the procedure.
- Tell your doctor and/or nurses if you are allergic to anything.
- injected during the procedure.
- The procedure is performed in the X-ray operating room. This room is cool and dimly lit.
- You will lie on a special table above which you will see a large camera and several
- monitors.
- When the contrast medium is injected, you may feel heat or notice redness for a few
- seconds. This is normal – these sensations will quickly disappear.
- Catheters and an introducer are removed from the blood vessel. The doctor will press
- the puncture site with a finger and apply a compression bandage.
- The nurse will check your bandage regularly to prevent bleeding.
- After a puncture in the leg, you need to lie in bed for several hours.
- The puncture site may be sensitive.
- You will need to drink plenty of fluid to clear the contrast material from your body.
