Laparoscopic splenectomy in the treatment of splenic artery aneurysm - case report and literature review

Abstract

Introduction. Splenic artery aneurysm is the most common visceral aneurysm with a prevalence of 0.2–10%. It is the third most frequent abdominal aneurysm as well. It can be true or false. It occurs more often in women than in men. We present our experience with a 34-year-old female patient who underwent laparoscopic splenectomy due to the splenic aneurysm located in the splenic hilum. Case outline. We present a case of a 34-year-old female patient diagnosed with an enlarged splenic artery during a routine abdominal ultrasound examination. Abdominal scan and computed tomography angiography showed saccular aneurysm of the splenic artery located in the hilum of the spleen, 24 × 17 mm in size. Given the good general condition and age of the patient, we decided to perform laparoscopic splenectomy. The operation was performed without complications, which was also the case with the postoperative flow. The patient was discharged from the hospital on the third postoperative day. Conclusion. Laparoscopic splenectomy is a safe and effective modality for the treatment of splenic artery aneurysm, localized in the splenic hilum. Considering all the benefits of minimally invasive surgery, laparoscopic splenectomy should be the treatment of choice, over the classical open approach.

Keywords

• spleen
• aneurysm
• splenic artery
• laparoscopic splenectomy