Complications Following Splenic Embolization for Trauma: Have Things Changed Over Time?

Abstract

Splenic artery embolization (SAE) is a routinely used adjunct in the nonoperative management (NOM) of blunt splenic injury (BSI). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the rate and type of adverse events that occur in patients undergoing SAE and to compare this with the previous data. Patients who had SAE for BSI between 2011 and 2018 were identified. Splenic abscess, splenic infarction, and contrast-induced renal insufficiency were considered major complications. Coil migration, fever, and pleural effusions were regarded minor complications. The results were compared with data from a prior study examining similar indices at the same trauma center between 2000 and2010. There were 716 patients admitted with BSI. SAE was performed in 74 (13.3%) of the 557 (78%) NOM patients. The overall complication rate was 33.8%. Major complications occurred in 11 patients (14.9%) and minor in 13 patients (18.9%). There was no association between complications and coil location by logistic regression. SAE continues to be a useful adjunct in the NOM of BSI though complications continue to occur. Fewer minor complications were noted in the period studied compared to past similar studies.