RESUMO
BACKGROUND: Proximal splenic artery embolisation (PSAE) can be performed in stable patients with Association for the Surgery of Trauma (AAST) grade III-V splenic injury. PSAE reduces splenic perfusion but maintains viability of the spleen and pancreas via the collateral circulation. The hypothesized ideal location is between the dorsal pancreatic artery (DPA) and great pancreatic artery (GPA). This study compares the outcomes resulting from PSAE embolisation in different locations along the splenic artery. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective review was performed of PSAE for blunt splenic trauma (2015-2020). Embolisation locations were divided into: Type I, proximal to DPA; Type II, DPA-GPA; Type III, distal to GPA. Fifty-eight patients underwent 59 PSAE: Type I (7); Type II (27); Type III (25). Data was collected on technical and clinical success, post-embolisation pancreatitis and splenic perfusion. Statistical significance was assessed using a chi-squared test. RESULTS: Technical success was achieved in 100% of cases. Clinical success was 100% for Type I/II embolisation and 88% for Type III: one patient underwent reintervention and two had splenectomies for ongoing instability. Clinical success was significantly higher in Type II embolisation compared to Type III (p = 0.02). No episodes of pancreatitis occurred post-embolisation. Where post-procedural imaging was obtained, splenic perfusion remained 100% in Type I and II embolisation and 94% in Type III. Splenic perfusion was significantly higher in the theorized ideal Type II group compared to Type I and III combined (p = 0.01). CONCLUSION: The results support the proposed optimal embolisation location as being between the DPA and GPA.
RESUMO
The Nellix endovascular aneurysm sealing system is a novel alternative to conventional endovascular aneurysm repair for aortic aneurysm management using paired balloon-expandable endografts supported by polymer-filled endobags to achieve sealing and anatomic fixation. Part of the promise of endovascular aneurysm sealing is increased resistance to lateral and longitudinal forces and a potential for reduced rates of device-related failures, particularly endoleaks. Initial efficacy data on this device are encouraging, but our knowledge of its associated complications and their management is limited. Reported adverse events include Type I and II endoleaks, graft stenosis, and occlusion. The aim of this article was to review the early experience of endovascular aneurysm sealing, focusing on the incidence, significance, and management of device-related complications.