The outcome of partial splenic embolization for hypersplenism in the cirrhotic patients

Background

Although partial splenic embolization (PSE) has been widely used for treatment of leucocytopaenia and thrombocytopaenia in cirrhosis, only few studies evaluate both benefits and complications of it.

Objective

To evaluate outcome of partial splenic embolization benefits on both platelet and leukocytes counts and its complications in treatment of cirrhotic patients.

Patients and methods

Cirrhotic patients with hypersplenism-induced thrombo-cytopenia underwent partial splenic embolization (PSE). From All patients complete history and full clinical examination were taken and subjected to Laboratory investigations. After PSE was performed, the precise extent of embolization was calculated on CT examinations 2 weeks after PSE. Prophylactic antibiotics was given for 5 days after PSE. All patients were then followed up at the outpatient clinic. Peripheral blood cell parameters including white blood cell (WBC), platelet (PLT) and red blood cell (RBC) counts were monitored prior to PSE, on the 3rd, 14th, 30th day after PSE, and subsequently at 3-month intervals during the 2-year follow-up period. The complications associated with PSE were appropriately recorded. All patients underwent abdominal CT scanning before and 2 weeks after PSE.

Results

Twenty three patients were included in this study. 13 (57%) males and 10 (43%) females with mean age 42.37 years. PSE was successfully performed in all 23 patients. Post-embolization syndrome 91.3% (21/23) was the most frequent side effect. Other minor complications as puncture site hematoma occurred to one patient at site of femoral artery. Severe complications occurred in eight patients (34.8%). two patients had a large amount of pleural effusion and ascites. One patients developed bacterial peritonitis and died of septicemia. One patient complicated by splenic abscess. One patient had recurrent thrombo-cytopenia and treated by PSE. Portal vein thrombosis was found in one patient. One patient presented with huge splenomegaly and improved after splenectomy. Post-PSE, the platelets and leukocytes counts showed increase in the number. Best results obtained with larger splenic infarction area but in the expense of more major complications.

Statistical analysis

Blood parameters were compared using paired t test. P < 0.05 means significant differences.

Conclusion

PSE is a useful treatment in patients with hypersplenism caused by cirrhosis. PSE is safe in advanced disease patients, not suitable for splenectomy, with good long-term effect on the hematological parameters and a reduction in bleeding episodes from esophageal varices.