Delayed splenectomy was rare in this study of adults admitted with blunt splenic injury, and angiography with embolization did not affect splenectomy rates.
Most patients with blunt splenic injury are managed nonoperatively with strategies ranging from bed rest and watchful waiting to angiography with embolization; however, there is no consensus regarding optimal treatment algorithms.
In a multicenter study, researchers prospectively collected data for 383 adult trauma patients with computed tomographic (CT) evidence of blunt splenic injury who underwent an initial 24-hour period of nonoperative management. Patients admitted more than 24 hours after injury and those with hematologic disorders, prior spleen surgery, or pregnancy were excluded. Severity of injury and presence of contrast extravasation were interpreted by a radiologist or treating surgeon based on the initial CT scan. Follow-up occ…
Reviewing Author
DisclosuresConsultant / Advisory boardVerathon, Inc. (Scientific Advisory Board Member)
Editorial boardsScientific American Emergency Medicine; Manual of Emergency Airway Management (Editor-in-Chief)
Leadership positions in professional societiesPrograms Subcommittee Chair for the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine–Residency and Fellowship Fair
DisclosuresConsultant / Advisory boardVerathon, Inc. (Scientific Advisory Board Member)
Editorial boardsScientific American Emergency Medicine; Manual of Emergency Airway Management (Editor-in-Chief)
Leadership positions in professional societiesPrograms Subcommittee Chair for the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine–Residency and Fellowship Fair