Changing attitudes toward the management of blunt splenic trauma in adults.
Publication/Presentation Date
6-1-1986
Abstract
During the past decade, one of the most controversial issues in the surgical literature has been the question of what is the most appropriate management of splenic trauma. An increased understanding of the physiologic importance of splenic function must now be weighed against the life-threatening risk of exsanguinating splenic hemorrhage. In this article, postsplenectomy sepsis and mortality in adults and the selective management of blunt splenic trauma are discussed. Although the risks of postsplenectomy sepsis and serious infection are low, they do exist. A policy of individual assessment of cases is recommended when the merits of splenectomy versus those of splenic preservation are considered. Similarly, in cases of blunt splenic trauma, a policy of individual assessment is not only intellectually attractive but also safe, rational, and effective from a clinical standpoint. In selected cases of blunt splenic trauma, nonoperative management and splenorrhaphy are acceptable alternatives; however, in many instances splenectomy remains the most appropriate and only course of action.
Volume
61
Issue
6
First Page
472
Last Page
477
ISSN
0025-6196
Published In/Presented At
Mucha P., Jr (1986). Changing attitudes toward the management of blunt splenic trauma in adults. Mayo Clinic proceedings, 61(6), 472–477. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0025-6196(12)61983-1
Disciplines
Medicine and Health Sciences
PubMedID
3713258
Department(s)
Department of Surgery
Document Type
Article