Partial splenic embolization can relieve portal hypertension hypersplenism and esophageal varices

Objective To evaluate clinical effect of partial splenic embolization (PSE) on relief of hypersplenia and esophageal varices with portal hypertension. Methods Forty-six patients with portal hypertension, hypersplenism and esophageal varices caused by hepatocirrhosis, were treated by superselective partial splenic arterial embolization . The duct was inserted by Seldinger′s technology through the femoral artery into the splenic artery stem. The portal pressure, peripheral blood picture and esophageal varices condition were recorded before and after treatment . The efficacy of treatment was observed. Results The degree of embolization ranged from 40% to 90%, compared with the condition before operation, the portal pressure and ALT was decreased, the peripheral WBC and PLT count was ameliorated, esophageal varices was relieved and the intermission of upper gastrointestinal bleeding was prolonged. No severe complication occurred in all cases. Conclusion Partial splenic embolization is safe and effective treatment for portal hypertension and hypersplenism caused by hepatocirrhosis. It lessens the portal hypertension and reduces or eliminates hypersplenism, relieves esophageal varices.