title: Complications arising from splenic artery embolization: a review of an 11-year experience.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Splenic artery embolization (SAE) is a staple adjunct in the management of blunt splenic trauma. We examined complications of SAE over an 11-year period.
  
  
  METHODS
  Patients who underwent SAE were identified. Demographic data and the location of the SAE-proximal, distal, or combined-were noted. Major and minor complications were identified.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Of 1,383 patients with blunt splenic trauma, 298 (21.5%) underwent operative management, and 1,085 (78.5%) underwent nonoperative management (NOM). SAE was performed in 8.1% of the NOM group. Major complications which occurred in 14% of patients, included splenic abscesses, infarction, cysts, and contrast-induced renal insufficiency. Three-fourths of patients with major complications underwent distal embolization. There were more complications in patients who underwent distal embolization (24% distal vs 6% proximal alone; P = .02). Minor complications, which occurred in 34% of patients, included left-sided pleural effusions, coil migration, and fever.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  SAE is a useful tool for managing splenic injuries. Major and minor complications can occur. Distal embolization is associated with more major complications.
authors: Department of Surgery, Wright State University, Dayton, OH, USA. Peter.ekeh@wright.edu
authors: Akpofure Peter
authors: AP
authors: Ekeh
authors: Shaden
authors: S
authors: Khalaf
authors: Sadia
authors: S
authors: Ilyas
authors: Shannon
authors: S
authors: Kauffman
authors: Mbaga
authors: M
authors: Walusimbi
authors: Mary C
authors: MC
authors: McCarthy
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000792:Angiography; D002648:Child; D003287:Contrast Media; D004621:Embolization, Therapeutic / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D013154:Spleen / Q000098:blood supply* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000293:injuries*; D013157:Splenic Artery; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014949:Wounds, Nonpenetrating / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery / Q000628:therapy*
chemical_list: D003287:Contrast Media