Selective embolization of splenic artery aneurysm – case report

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Embolization of visceral artery aneurysms has been increasingly accepted as a beneficial alternative to surgery. METHODS: The aim of this case report was to evaluate the feasibility of the endovascular therapy of a saccular aneurysm of the splenic artery at its first bifurcation. We approached the aneurysm with a supraselective catheter embolization using coils. RESULTS: After an interval of 4 weeks, we found a residual perfusion (0.3 by 0.6 mm) within the former neck in the control angiography. A repeat supraselective embolization was not favored because of catheter-induced vascular spasms of the splenic artery. A further 8 weeks later, control angiography revealed thrombosis of the previously diagnosed aneurysmatic sac, confirmed only minor residual flow through the thrombosed neck of the former aneurysm, and indicated sustained spleen blood supply as further revealed in later duplex ultrasonography follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Selective coil embolization as first-line therapy to treat saccular splenic artery aneurysm is feasible.