The management of splenic artery aneurysm in patients awaiting liver transplantation

Abstract

Splenic artery aneurysms (SAAs) are the third most common forms of intra-abdominal aneurysm, and the most commonly encountered visceral aneurysms in the general population. SAAs occur more commonly in patients with portal hypertension and liver failure and, as such, are often encountered in patients undergoing high-resolution abdominal imaging as part of a work-up for liver transplantation. While rupture rates of between 2% and 10% have been reported in the literature, little is known about the natural history and behavior of these lesions in patients with liver disease. Interventional management options pose a challenge given the high anesthetic and surgical risk of such patients. This study was conducted to study the management of all SAAs diagnosed among patients presenting for a liver transplant assessment at a single center over a three-yr period. We discuss the presentation and management options, with elective and emergent presentation of SAA in patients with end-stage liver disease