Clinical research on partial splenic embolization in treatment of cirrhotic portal hypertension

Abstract

Objective To compare the therapeutic effects of partial splenic embolization (PSE) and periesophagogastric devascularization on cirrhotic portal hypertension. Methods The clinical data of patients with cirrhotic portal hypertension who received intervention or surgical therapy were retrospectively analyzed; and 73 cases were enrolled as research subjects according to inclusion criteria, of which 38 cases were allocated into PSE group and 35 cases were allocated into periesophagogastric devascularization group. The blood biochemical criterion, liver function, complication, hospital stay, cost of hospitalization prior to operation and at 7 days and 1 month after operation were compared between the two groups. Results Two treatment methods both can improve the clinical symptoms in patients with cirrhotic portal hypertension. After the operation, the patients’ blood biochemical criteria and liver function were improved significantly (both P<0.05). Hospital stay and cost of hospitalization in PSE group were significantly lower than those in periesophagogastric devascularization group (P<0.05). Conclusions PSE has obvious therapeutic effects on cirrhotic portal hypertension, with advantages of minimal operative injury, fewer hospital stay and cost of hospitalization. It can not only achieve similar effect as periesophagogastric devascularization, but also enjoy the advantage of preserving the immune function of spleen, it is worthy of clinical application and promotion. Key words: Partial splenic embolization; Liver cirrhosis; Portal hypertension; Splenectomy; Periesophagogastric devascularization