Changes in portal hemodynamics and hepatic function after partial splenic embolization (PSE) and percutaneous transhepatic obliteration (PTO)

Efficacy of endoscopic therapy combined with partial splenic embolization versus Hassab's operation for patients with liver cirrhosis with esophageal variceal bleeding and hypersplenism: a multicenter cohort study based on propensity score matching

BACKGROUND

The prognosis comparison between endoscopic therapy + partial splenic embolization (PSE) and Hassab's operation is unclear in the treatment of esophageal variceal bleeding in patients with liver cirrhosis. This study aimed to compare the outcome of endoscopic therapy + PSE (EP) with a combination of splenectomy + pericardial devascularization procedure, known as Hassab's operation (SH) for esophageal variceal bleeding in patients with liver cirrhosis with hypersplenism.

METHODS

We enrolled 328 patients, including 125 and 203 patients who underwent EP and SH, respectively. Each group consisted of 110 patients after propensity score matching (PSM). Subsequently, we recorded and analyzed bleeding episodes and mortality in 6 months and 1, 2, and 5 years after therapies.

RESULTS

The median follow-up time in the EP and SH groups was 53 and 64 months, respectively. Bleeding incidence 6 months after therapies in the EP group was lower than that in the SH group (1.8% vs. 10.0%, P = 0.010). Additionally, complications in the perioperative period were not significantly different (0% vs. 3.6%, P = 0.008). However, the bleeding rate between the two groups was not significantly different at 1, 2, and 5 years after therapies (7.3% vs. 12.7%, P = 0.157; 10.9% vs. 16.4%, P = 0.205; 30.6% vs. 31.8%, P = 0.801), as well as mortality rate (4.5% vs 7.3%, P = 0.571).

CONCLUSION

Compared with SH therapy, the bleeding rate 6 months after EP therapy was lower, but the long-term bleeding rate was similar.

Two Cases of Gastric Varices with Left-sided Portal Hypertension Due to Essential Thrombocythemia Treated with Gastric Devascularization or Partial Splenic Embolization

Left-sided portal hypertension (LSPH) is a condition of extrahepatic portal hypertension that often results in bleeding from isolated gastric varices (GVs). LSPH is sometimes caused by myeloproliferative diseases, such as essential thrombocythemia (ET). We herein report two cases of GVs with LSPH due to ET that were successfully controlled by gastric devascularization (GDS) or partial splenic embolization (PSE). Since each patient with LSPH due to ET has a different pathology, optimal treatment should be performed depending on the patient's condition, such as platelet counts, hemodynamics, or the prognosis. We believe that these cases will serve as a reference for future cases.

Efficacy and safety of heparin plus dexamethasone after partial splenic embolization for liver cirrhosis with massive splenomegaly

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy and safety of the combination of low-molecular-weight heparin + dexamethasone after partial splenic embolization in cirrhotic patients with massive splenomegaly.

METHODS

This study included 116 patients with liver cirrhosis complicated with massive splenomegaly who underwent PSE in Union Hospital from January 2016 to December 2019, and they met the criteria. They were divided into two groups: PSE + Hep + Dex group (N = 54) and PSE group (N = 62). We conducted a retrospective study to analyze the efficacy and safety of the two groups of patients.

RESULTS

The volume of splenic embolization was 622.34 ± 157.06 cm³ in the PSE + Hep + DEX group and 587.62 ± 175.33 cm³ in the PSE group (P = 0.306). There was no statistically difference in the embolization rate of the spleen between the two groups (P = 0.573). WBC peaked 1 week after PSE and PLT peaked 1 month after PSE in both groups; it gradually decreased later, but was significantly higher than the preoperative level during the 12-month follow-up period. The incidences of abdominal pain (46.3% vs 66.1%, P = 0.039), fever (38.9% vs 75.8%, P < 0.001), PVT (1.9% vs 12.9%, P = 0.026), refractory ascites (5.6% vs 19.4%, P = 0.027) were lower in the PSE + Hep + DEX group than in the PSE group. The VAS score of abdominal pain in PSE group was higher than that in PSE + Hep + DEX group on postoperative days 2-8 (P < 0.05). Splenic abscess occurred in 1(1.6%) patient in the PSE group and none (0.0%) in the PSE + Hep + DEX group (P = 0.349).

CONCLUSIONS

The combined use of dexamethasone and low-molecular-weight heparin after PSE is a safe and effective treatment strategy that can significantly reduce the incidence of complications after PSE (such as post-embolization syndrome, PVT, refractory ascites).

Drastic Improvement in Hepatitis B/C Virus-induced Decompensated Liver Cirrhosis Treated by Total Management Consisting of Interventional Radiology, Endoscopy, and Pharmacotherapy

Recent advances in antiviral therapy have enabled control of the hepatitis virus; however, these do not completely eliminate the pathological condition of liver disease, and portal hypertension remains a clinical problem. We herein report a case of hepatitis B virus/hepatitis C virus (HBV/HCV)-induced decompensated liver cirrhosis for which total management consisting of interventional radiology and endoscopy, based on the evidence of our clinical studies, followed by antiviral therapy for co-infection with HBV and HCV was successful. This case clearly indicates the effective timing of total management, suggesting that it prolongs the vital prognosis in addition to improving the hepatic function.

Short-term Effects of Hepatic Arterial Buffer Responses Induced by Partial Splenic Embolization on the Hepatic Function of Patients with Cirrhosis According to the Child-Pugh Classification

Objective This study primarily aimed to investigate the short-term effects of partial splenic embolization (PSE) on the Child-Pugh score and identify predictive factors for changes in the score caused by PSE. The secondary aim was to analyze changes in various parameters at one month postoperatively using these identified factors. Methods Between September 2007 and December 2019, 118 patients with cirrhosis and hypersplenism underwent PSE at our hospital. Testing was conducted preoperatively and at one month after PSE. Results Overall, the Child-Pugh score was not significantly changed postoperatively. The Child-Pugh score before PSE was identified as the strongest independent predictor of ameliorated and deteriorated Child-Pugh scores after PSE. Higher pretreatment Child-Pugh scores were correlated with higher posttreatment amelioration rates of the score. A significant decrease in the portal vein diameter and a significant increase in the common hepatic artery diameter were evident at the same level postoperatively in 64 patients with Child-Pugh class A (group A) and in 54 patients with Child-Pugh class B or C (group B/C) preoperatively. According to Murray's Law, PSE resulted in decreased portal venous flow and increased hepatic arterial flow, suggesting a hepatic arterial buffer response (HABR) induced by the procedure. Despite equivalent splenic infarction rates and similar posttreatment changes in hepatic hemodynamics, PSE significantly increased the Child-Pugh score of group A; however, the procedure significantly decreased the score of group B/C. Conclusion Considering original portal venous-hepatic arterial hemodynamics, PSE is expected to produce HABR-mediated hepatic functional improvements in cirrhosis patients with Child-Pugh class B/C.

Splenic non-infarction volume determines a clinically significant hepatic venous pressure gradient response to partial splenic embolization in patients with cirrhosis and hypersplenism

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to investigate changes in the hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) by partial splenic embolization (PSE) and to identify the determinants of a clinically meaningful postoperative HVPG reduction.

METHODS

Sixty-eight patients with cirrhosis and hypersplenism who underwent PSE at our department between September 2007 and June 2020 were included. The HVPG was evaluated pre- and immediately post-PSE. The patients were divided into three groups according to their preprocedural HVPG: low-HVPG (< 10 mmHg, n = 22), intermediate-HVPG (10 mmHg ≤ HVPG < 16 mmHg, n = 33), and high-HVPG (≥ 16 mmHg, n = 13).

RESULTS

Overall, PSE significantly reduced HVPG from 12.2 ± 4.0 to 9.4 ± 3.6 mmHg (p < 0.01) with a relative decrease of 22.2 ± 20.4%. In addition, HVPG reductions were 19.4 ± 28.7%, 24.0 ± 15.9%, and 22.5 ± 13.3% in the low-, intermediate-, and high-HVPG groups, respectively, indicating no significant difference in HVPG reduction between the groups. An HVPG decrease of ≥ 20% from the baseline, defined in this study as a clinically significant HVPG response to PSE, was achieved in 55.9% of all patients. Multivariate logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic curve analyses identified splenic non-infarction volume as an independent determinant of a 20% decrease in HVPG (p < 0.05), with a cut-off of 139.2 cm³ (sensitivity, 76.3%; specificity, 60.0%; p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The splenic non-infarction volume, namely the residual functional spleen volume, independently determines a clinically significant HVPG response to PSE in patients with cirrhosis and hypersplenism.

Partial splenic embolization combined with endoscopic therapies and NSBB decreases the variceal rebleeding rate in cirrhosis patients with hypersplenism: a multicenter randomized controlled trial

Background

Global research on endoscopic therapies in combination with partial splenic embolization (PSE) for variceal hemorrhage (VH) is limited. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of endoscopy plus PSE (EP) treatment in comparison to endoscopic (E) treatment for the secondary prophylaxis of VH in cirrhosis patients with hypersplenism.

Methods

Cirrhosis patients with hypersplenism (platelet count < 100, 000/µL) and those who had recovered from an episode of VH were enrolled in a multicenter randomized controlled trial. The participants were randomly assigned into EP and E groups in a 1:1 ratio. The primary endpoint was variceal rebleeding, and the secondary endpoints were severe variceal recurrence and mortality during the 2-year follow-up. Hematological indices, serum biochemical parameters, and the Child–Pugh score were measured at each time point.

Results

From June 2016 to December 2019, 108 patients were enrolled in the study, among which 102 patients completed the protocol (51 in EP and 51 in E group). The rebleeding rate of the varices was significantly reduced in the EP group compared to that in the E group during the 2 years (16% vs. 31%, p < 0.001). The EP group showed a significantly lower variceal recurrence rate than the E group (22% vs. 67%, p < 0.001). The COX proportional hazard models revealed that grouping was an independent predictor for variceal rebleeding (H = 0.122, 95% CI 0.055–0.270, p < 0.001) and variceal recurrence (hazard ratio, H = 0.160, 95% CI 0.077–0.332, p < 0.001). The peripheral blood cell count, Child–Pugh class/score, albumin concentration, and coagulation function in the EP group improved significantly compared to the values observed in the E group at any time point (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The EP treatment was more effective in preventing variceal rebleeding and variceal recurrence than the conventional E treatment during the secondary prophylaxis of VH in cirrhosis patients with hypersplenism. Furthermore, the EP treatment could significantly increase the peripheral blood cell count and albumin concentration and also improved the coagulation function and the Child–Pugh score.

Clinical trials registration

Trial registration number ClincialTrials.gov: NCT02778425. The URL of the clinical trial: https://clinicaltrials.gov/

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12072-021-10155-0.

Significant improvement in portal-systemic liver failure symptoms and successful management of portal-splenic venous hemodynamics by the combination of interventional radiology and pharmacotherapy

This study describes a case of hepatitis C virus-related decompensated cirrhosis with portal-systemic liver failure and refractory encephalopathy. It was successfully managed with a combination of interventional radiology and pharmacotherapy, to improve hepatic function, including hyperammonemia and to control portal-splenic venous hemodynamics with hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) monitoring. A man in his late 50s presented with a Child-Pugh score of 13, Model for End-Stage Liver Disease-sodium (MELD-Na) score of 19 and blood ammonia level of 185 μg/dL. He underwent balloon-occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration (BRTO) followed by partial splenic embolization (PSE) and non-selective beta-blocker (NSBB) administration. BRTO induced drastic changes in the portal-splenic venous hemodynamics, resulting in dramatically improved hepatic function and reduced hyperammonemia. However, the procedure resulted in increased HVPG from 13.6 mmHg at baseline to 23.5 mmHg at 1-month post-BRTO, accompanied by ascites retention and development of portal hypertensive gastropathy. Thereafter, PSE was performed, followed by NSBB administration, to control the elevated portal venous pressure following BRTO. Postoperatively, the patient's ascites and portal hypertensive gastrophy improved after splenic artery embolization, which eventually disappeared after the additional administration of NSBBs 1 month later. The HVPG finally decreased to 16.9 mmHg; the Child-Pugh score, MELD-Na score and blood ammonia level improved to 7, 11 and 22 μg/dL, respectively, after all therapies. BRTO significantly improved the symptoms of portal-systemic liver failure with refractory encephalopathy. PSE and NSBB administration could contribute to additional amelioration of hepatic function and successful management of complications induced by portal hemodynamic changes following BRTO.

Novel Therapeutic Strategy Using Interventional Radiology (IVR) for Hepatitis C Virus (HCV)-Related Decompensated Liver Cirrhosis: A Case Report

Patient: Male, 72

Final Diagnosis: Decompensated liver cirrhosis

Symptoms: Disturbance of consciousness

Medication: —

Clinical Procedure: PSE • BRTO • HCV treatment

Specialty: Radiology

Observation of immediate and mid-term effects of partial spleen embolization in reducing hepatic venous pressure gradient

OBJECTIVE

To observe the immediate and mid-term effects of partial spleen embolization (PSE) in reducing hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) in patients with cirrhotic esophagogastric varices.

METHODS

Patients diagnosed with cirrhosis and esophagogastric varices in our hospital between July 2016 and March 2018 were consecutively selected. Forty-three patients were selected based on the eligibility criteria to undergo PSE. The change in HVPG 5 minutes before and after embolization, was used to determine the immediate effect of PSE on HVPG reduction. HVPG was retested after 6 months to observe the change in the antihypertensive effect along with time.

RESULTS

Forty-three patients successfully underwent PSE and HVPG measurements. The HVPG was 17.7 ± 3.9 mmHg and 13.9 ± 3.1 mmHg before and after PSE, respectively, showing a significant decrease (21.5%, P < .05). Among them, 18 cases were retested for HVPG at 6 months after PSE, and the results showed significant differences in the HVPG levels before, immediately and 6 months after PSE. Compared with preoperative PSE, HVPG was decreased by 22.9% and 17.7% (P < 0.05) immediately and at 6 months after operation, respectively. There was no significant change at 6 months after PSE when compared with immediate postoperative PSE. No serious complications were observed in patients during their postoperative hospital stay.

CONCLUSION

PSE immediately reduced the portal pressure, and HVPG remained stable at 6 months after surgery. PSE is considered as a safe and easy to implement method, and is expected to be one of the treatments for reducing the portal pressure.

A novel therapeutic strategy for esophageal varices using endoscopic treatment combined with splenic artery embolization according to the Child-Pugh classification

Variceal hemorrhage may cause high rebleeding and mortality rates. Preventing the first episode of variceal bleeding is mandatory in patients with high-risk esophageal varices (EV). This study aimed to identify factors that predict the recurrence of EV after endoscopic treatment (ET), and to develop a reasonable therapeutic strategy for EV in cirrhosis. From January 2012 to December 2014, 45 patients with cirrhosis and high-risk EV underwent ET, including sclerotherapy and/or ligation. Statistical analyses identified factors associated with the recurrence of EV after ET, and the Kaplan-Meier method determined the cumulative variceal recurrence rates. The 1-, 2-, and 3-year cumulative posttreatment recurrence rates for EV were 13.3%, 29.5%, and 32.2%, respectively. No significant differences were evident between the patients with and without variceal recurrences at 1-year posttreatment. The multivariate regression analyses identified a history of partial splenic embolization (PSE) and the pretreatment Child-Pugh classification as independent predictors of variceal recurrences at 2 years (p < 0.05) and 3 years (p < 0.05) posttreatment. While EV did not recur after ET and splenic artery embolization in cases with Child-Pugh class A, the overall posttreatment variceal recurrence rates were 0% and 66.7% when PSE was performed before and after ET, respectively, in those with Child-Pugh class B or C. Splenic artery embolization significantly reduced the hepatic venous pressure gradient and markedly lowered the Child-Pugh score in 15 patients. Adjunctive PSE and pretreatment Child-Pugh class A could be independently associated with reduced cumulative recurrence rates of EV post-ET. From the perspectives of portal hemodynamics and hepatic function, splenic artery embolization before or after ET could prevent posttreatment variceal recurrence in patients with Child-Pugh class A, and PSE before ET could achieve the long-term eradication of EV following ET in those with Child-Pugh class B or C.

Gastroesophageal Variceal Bleeding Successfully Controlled by Partial Splenic Embolization

A 53-year-old male patient with a history of hepatocellular carcinoma developed gastroesophageal varices refractory to endoscopic injection sclerotherapy (EIS). He required EIS six times in 2 years for recurring variceal bleeding. After hepatic resection, he developed massive splenomegaly. Partial splenic embolization (PSE) was performed to reduce the portal pressure. Varices and variceal bleeding were not detected during 13-year follow up, until the patient died of hepatocellular carcinoma. This is a unique case of gastroesophageal varices controlled by PSE and improved portal hypertension.

Portal and splanchnic hemodynamics after partial splenic embolization in cirrhotic patients with hypersplenism

To assess the acute effects of partial splenic embolization (PSE) on portal and splanchnic hemodynamics in patients with cirrhosis. Ninety-five patients with hypersplenism were included in the study. Duplex examinations were performed before and 3 and 7 days after PSE. Portal and splanchnic hemodynamics including vessel cross-sectional area (CSA), mean flow velocities (cm/s), blood flows (mL/min), Doppler indices as portal congestion index (CI), liver vascular index, hepatic artery and superior mesenteric artery (SMA) pulsatility and resistive indices (PI and RI), were performed before and after PSE. In our study, 69 of 95 patients were males (72.6%) and 26 females (27.3%). Chronic hepatitis C virus infection was the main cause of cirrhosis (81.1%). PSE failed technically in six patients (6.3%). After PSE, both CSA and CI significantly decreased (p < 0.05 and <0.01). The portal vein velocity significantly increased (p < 0.01). The portal flow volume (892.4 ± 151 mL/min) did not show significant changes. The hepatic artery RI and PI showed a steady increase that became significant 7 days post-PSE (p < 0.05). The RI and PI of SMA increased significantly after 7 days of PSE (p < 0.05). PSE has an immediate portal decompression effect in patients with portal hypertension without reduction in portal flow. This effect on portal pressure should be investigated in future studies as a potential tool for management of acute variceal bleeding when other medical procedures fail.

A Comparative Study of Surgical Splenectomy, Partial Splenic Embolization, and High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound for Hypersplenism

OBJECTIVES

This study compared splenectomy, partial splenic embolization, and high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) therapy, which represent the traditional, mature, and newest methods for improving thrombocytopenia in hypersplenism, respectively.

METHODS

A total of 69 patients with hypersplenism were treated with surgical splenectomy (n = 31), HIFU (n = 26), or partial splenic embolization (n = 12). They were followed closely for at least 6 months, and the effectiveness of the treatments was compared.

RESULTS

Among the 3 groups, splenectomy was the most effective treatment for increasing peripheral blood cells. Embolization reduced the operating time and hospital stay, but HIFU was relatively safer and less invasive than the other treatments.

CONCLUSIONS

High-intensity focused ultrasound has wide clinical indications for hypersplenism and may be safer than other treatment methods. Therefore, it is a good alternative procedure for patients with a high surgical risk.

Management of thrombocytopenia in advanced liver disease

Thrombocytopenia (defined as a platelet count <150×10(9)) is a well-known complication in patients with liver cirrhosis and has been observed in 76% to 85% of patients. Significant thrombocytopenia (platelet count <50×10(9) to 75×10(9)) occurs in approximately 13% of patients with cirrhosis. Thrombocytopenia can negatively impact the care of patients with severe liver disease by potentially interfering with diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Multiple factors can contribute to the development of thrombocytopenia including splenic platelet sequestration, immunological processes, bone marrow suppression by chronic viral infection, and reduced levels or activity of the hematopoietic growth factor thrombopoietin. The present review focuses on the etiologies and management options for severe thrombocytopenia in the setting of advanced liver disease.

Treatment of gastric varices with partial splenic embolization in a patient with portal vein thrombosis and a myeloproliferative disorder

Therapeutic options for gastric variceal bleeding in the presence of extensive portal vein thrombosis associated with a myeloproliferative disorder are limited. We report a case of a young woman who presented with gastric variceal bleeding secondary to extensive splanchnic venous thrombosis due to a Janus kinase 2 mutation associated myeloproliferative disorder that was managed effectively with partial splenic embolization.

Partial splenic artery embolization in cirrhotic patients

Splenomegaly is a common sequela of cirrhosis, and is frequently associated with decreased hematologic indices including thrombocytopenia and leukopenia. Partial splenic artery embolization (PSE) has been demonstrated to effectively increase hematologic indices in cirrhotic patients with splenomegaly. This is particularly valuable amongst those cirrhotic patients who are not viable candidates for splenectomy. Although PSE was originally developed decades ago, it has recently received increased attention. Presently, PSE is being utilized to address a number of clinical concerns in the setting of cirrhosis, including: decreased hematologic indices, portal hypertension and its associated sequela, and splenic artery steal syndrome. Following PSE patients demonstrate significant increases in platelets and leukocytes. Though progressive decline of hematologic indices occur following PSE, they remain improved as compared to pre-procedural values over long-term follow-up. PSE, however, is not without risk and complications of the procedure may occur. The most common complication of PSE is post-embolization syndrome, which involves a constellation of symptoms including fever, pain, and nausea/vomiting. The rate of complications has been shown to increase as the percent of total splenic volume embolized increases. The purpose of this review is to explore the current literature in regards to PSE in cirrhotic patients and to highlight their techniques, and statistically summarize their results and associated complications.

Large splenic volume may be a useful predictor for partial splenic embolization-induced liver functional improvement in cirrhotic patients

BACKGROUND

Partial splenic embolization (PSE) for cirrhotic patients has been reported not only to achieve an improvement in thrombocytopenia and portal hypertension, but also to induce PSE-associated fringe benefit such as individual liver functional improvement. The purpose of this study was to clarify the predictive marker of liver functional improvement due from PSE in cirrhotic patients.

METHODS

From April 1999 to January 2009, 83 cirrhotic patients with hypersplenism-induced thrombocytopenia (platelet count <10 × 10(4)/μl) underwent PSE. Of them, 71 patients with follow-up for more than one year after PSE were retrospectively investigated.

RESULTS

In liver tissues after PSE, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA)-positive hepatocytes were remarkably increased, speculating that PSE induced liver regenerative response. Indeed, serum albumin and cholinesterase levels increased to 104 ± 14% and 130 ± 65% each of the pretreatment level at one year after PSE. In a multiple linear regression analysis, preoperative splenic volume was extracted as the predictive factor for the improvement in cholinesterase level after PSE. Cirrhotic patients with preoperative splenic volume >600 ml obtained significantly higher serum albumin and cholinesterase levels at one year after PSE compared to those with less than 600 ml (P-values were 0.029 in both).

CONCLUSION

A large preoperative splenic volume was the useful predictive marker for an effective PSE-induced liver functional improvement.

Partial splenic embolization

Partial splenic embolization (PSE) is a non-surgical procedure developed to treat hypersplenism as a result of hepatic disease and thus avoid the disadvantages of splenectomy. A femoral artery approach is used for selective catheterization of the splenic artery. Generally, the catheter tip is placed as distally as possible in an intrasplenic artery. After an injection of antibiotics and steroids, embolization is achieved by injecting 2-mm gelatin sponge cubes suspended in a saline solution containing antibiotics. PSE can benefit patients with thrombocytopenia, esophagogastric varices, portal hypertensive gastropathy, encephalopathy, liver dysfunction, splenic aneurysm, and splenic trauma. The contraindications of PSE include secondary splenomegaly and hypersplenism in patients with terminal-stage underlying disease; pyrexia or severe infections are associated with a high risk of splenic abscess after PSE. Complications of PSE include daily intermittent fever, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, abdominal fullness, appetite loss, and postembolization syndrome. Decreased portal-vein flow and a rapid increase in the platelet count after excessive embolization may cause portal-vein or splenic-vein thrombosis.

Partial splenic embolization in the treatment of patients with portal hypertension: a review of the english language literature

This article reviews the existing literature on the use of partial splenic embolization in patients with portal hypertension. All articles published in the English language on splenic embolization or partial splenic embolization as a treatment for portal hypertension were identified with a PubMed search from 1973 through 2005. Partial splenic embolization appears to be efficacious in reducing episodes of variceal bleeding, improving hematologic parameters, enhancing hepatic protein synthesis, and reducing the severity of hepatic encephalopathy. Associated morbidity and mortality appear to be acceptable. The literature, however, is limited in quality. Given the potential benefits of partial splenic embolization, further investigation is warranted to allow evidence-based evaluation of its use.

Splenic artery ligation improves remnant liver function in partially hepatectomized rats with ischemia/reperfusion injury

BACKGROUND

In liver resection, the temporary occlusion of the hepatoduodenal ligament (Pringle maneuver) is often used. However, the maneuver causes severe ischemia/reperfusion injury in the remnant liver. Our aim was to investigate the effects of splenic artery ligation on the liver function in partially hepatectomized rat with the Pringle maneuver.

METHODS

The Pringle maneuver was conducted for 30 min just before a two-thirds partial hepatectomy. Splenic artery ligation was performed before the Pringle maneuver. The efficacy of splenic artery ligation was assessed by survival, serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), recovery of remnant liver weight, and portal pressure.

RESULTS

On day 3, animal survival was four rats of 12 in partially hepatectomized rats with the Pringle maneuver and 10 rats of 12 in the splenic artery ligation-treated partially hepatectomized rats with the Pringle maneuver. A two-thirds partial hepatectomy alone or splenic artery ligation itself did not show any effects on the survival. Compared with partially hepatectomized rats with the Pringle maneuver, splenic artery-ligated animals had lower serum AST and ALT levels, and higher recovery of remnant liver weight. Splenic artery ligation significantly reduced the portal pressure and also decreased the fatality in excessively hepatectomized rats.

CONCLUSIONS

Splenic artery ligation ameliorated the remnant liver function in partially hepatectomized rats with the Pringle maneuver and excessively hepatectomized rats. The amelioration may be mediated at least by decreasing portal pressure.

Prominent hepatic encephalopathy 19 years after splenopneumopexy in Budd-Chiari syndrome

Splenopneumopexy, which was developed in Japan, has been recognized as an effective surgical procedure in patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome. We report the case of a 72-year-old woman with Budd-Chiari syndrome and prominent hepatic encephalopathy. She was treated by splenopneumopexy 19 years previously at our institute. Recently, during a follow-up visit, she experienced disorientation and unconsciousness. Flapping tremor was also recognized, and electroencephalography demonstrated a triphasic wave. In computed tomography and angiography imagings, the inferior vena cava was obstructed and the portopulmonary shunt placed by splenopneumopexy was remarkably dilated. There were no other major collaterals of the portal venous system. These findings showed that the hepatic encephalopathy was caused by the change in the portopulmonary shunt. Because hepatic encephalopathy can appear after splenopneumopexy, long-term follow-up may be necessary in patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome who are treated by splenopneumopexy.

Evaluation of the effect of partial splenic embolization on platelet values for liver cirrhosis patients with thrombocytopenia

AIM: To investigate the effect of partial splenic embolization (PSE) on platelet values in liver cirrhosis patients with thrombocytopenia and to determine the effective embolization area for platelet values improvement.

METHODS: Blood parameters and liver function indicators were measured on 10 liver cirrhosis patients (6 in Child-Pugh grade A and 4 in grade B) with thrombocytopenia (platelet values < 80 × 10³/μL) before embolization. Computed tomography scan was also needed in advance to acquire the splenic baseline. After 2 to 3 d, angiography and splenic embolization were performed. A second computed tomography scan was made to confirm the embolization area after 2 to 3 wk of embolization. The blood parameters of patients were also examined biweekly during the 1 year follow-up period.

RESULTS: According to the computed tomography images after partial splenic embolization, we divided all patients into two groups: low (< 30%), and high (≥ 30%) embolization area groups. The platelet values were increased by 3 times compared to baseline levels after 2 wk of embolization in high embolization area group. In addition, there were significant differences in platelet values between low and high embolization area groups. GPT values decreased significantly in all patients after 2 wk of embolization. The improvement in platelet and GPT values still persisted until 1 year after PSE. In addition, 3 of 4 (75%) Child-Pugh grade B patients progressed to grade A after 2 mo of PSE. The complication rate in < 30% and ≥ 30% embolization area groups was 50% and 100%, respectively.

CONCLUSION: Partial splenic embolization is an effective method to improve platelet values and GPT values in liver cirrhosis patients with thrombocytopenia and the ≥ 30% embolization area is meaningful for platelet values improvement. The relationship between the complication rate and embolization area needs further studies.

The development and clinical features of splenic aneurysm associated with liver cirrhosis

OBJECTIVES

Splenic artery aneurysm (SAA) is usually asymptomatic, but can be fatal if it ruptures. Portal hypertensive patients with varix or splenomegaly are sometimes complicated by SAA. However, there have been no large-scale clinical studies regarding whether liver cirrhosis itself is associated with splenic aneurysm regardless of varix or splenomegaly.

METHODS

In the present study, we retrospectively analyzed 303 cirrhotic patients examined with arteriography. The diagnosis and characteristics of SAAs were determined, and the relation with splenic artery diameter was evaluated.

RESULTS

Nine patients (2.97%) had 12 complicated SAAs. The aneurysms, which measured 4-22 mm in diameter, were all saccular, and occurred commonly in the splenic hilum (50.0%). A correlation was noted between splenic artery diameter and aneurysm diameter (R(2)=0.706). Aneurysm growth was strongly associated with an increase in diameter of the splenic artery trunk (R(2)=0.705), which is closely related to arterial flow.

CONCLUSIONS

SAA is considered a complication of cirrhosis. The increase in splenic artery diameter may result in SAA enlargement and rupture. Elective procedures should be considered based on the follow-up of main trunk or diameter of the splenic artery in addition to SAA size, a known risk factor of aneurysmal rupture.

Splenic artery ligation ameliorates hepatic ischemia and reperfusion injury in rats

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Hepatic injury caused by ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) is a key clinical problem associated with liver transplantation and liver surgery. The spleen is involved in hepatic I/R injury. In this study, we examined the effects of splenic artery ligation on hepatic I/R injury.

METHODS

Splenic artery ligation was performed 7 days, 3 days, or just before the hepatic ischemia. Hepatic ischemia was conducted by occluding the blood vessels to the median and left lateral lobes with an atraumatic vascular clamp. Hepatic I/R injury was induced by 45 min of ischemia followed by 120 min of reperfusion.

RESULTS

When splenic artery ligation was performed at 3 days or just before the ischemia, serum aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase activities, as markers for hepatic injury, decreased as compared with the rats with I/R alone. Splenic artery ligation also reduced the myeloperoxidase activity, an enzyme present in neutrophils, and the expression of interleukin-6 mRNA, a proinflammatory cytokine, in rat livers with I/R. Efficacy of splenic artery ligation on hepatic I/R injury was also confirmed by histology. On the other hand, when splenic artery ligation was conducted 7 days before the ischemia, efficacy of splenic artery ligation was disappeared.

CONCLUSIONS

Splenic artery ligation ameliorates hepatic I/R injury in rats. These results strongly suggest the clinical usefulness of this surgical procedure to protect the liver against I/R injury.

Safe use of pegylated interferon/ribavirin in hepatitis C virus cirrhotic patients with hypersplenism after partial splenic embolization

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Partial splenic embolization (PSE) is a non-surgical alternative for the treatment of hypersplenism. Thrombocytopenia precludes the use of pegylated interferon (peg-IFN) and ribavirin in cirrhotic patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV). We aimed to evaluate the role of PSE as a procedure allowing combined HCV therapy in this setting.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of the safety and rate of sustained virological response (SVR) after a full-dose course of peg-IFN plus ribavirin in eight HCV cirrhotic patients with severe hypersplenism undergoing PSE at a tertiary centre in Madrid, Spain, from May 2002 to August 2004.

RESULTS

Six patients (75%) were in Child-Pugh class B (median score 7). PSE significantly improved the mean platelet (P = 0.012), leucocyte (P = 0.017) and haemoglobin (P = 0.035) levels, and prothrombin activity (P = 0.012). After a mean of 20 weeks after PSE all patients started weight-adjusted ribavirin plus peg-IFN-alpha2b (n = 6) or 180 microg/week of peg-IFN-alpha2a (n = 2). Six subjects (75%) completed therapy with no peg-IFN dose reductions; the dose of ribavirin was reduced in two patients reaching haemoglobin levels of less than 10 g/dl (one also received erythropoietin and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor because of neutrophil counts < 300 cells/microl). Three patients (38%) achieved SVR. Portal vein thrombosis was observed in 50% of patients, but did not preclude antiviral therapy. The pathogenic mechanism was multifactorial. It was successfully managed with anticoagulant therapy in two cases.

CONCLUSIONS

PSE allowed the safe use of peg-IFN plus ribavirin in HCV cirrhotic patients with severe cytopenias who otherwise would never have been treated. The rate of SVR was 38%.

Effects of prior splenectomy on remnant liver after partial hepatectomy with Pringle maneuver in rats

BACKGROUND/AIMS

In the case of the liver resection, the temporary occlusion of the hepatoduodenal ligament (Pringle maneuver) is often used. However, the maneuver causes hepatic ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury that strongly affects the recovery of patients. The present study investigated the effects of prior splenectomy on the remnant liver in partial hepatectomized rat with Pringle maneuver.

METHODS

Pringle maneuver was conducted just before a two-thirds partial hepatectomy. Efficacy of splenectomy was assessed by survival rate, serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), neutrophil infiltration into liver, recovery of remnant liver weight, and liver proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) levels. Ischemic preconditioning was performed as follows; 10 min of total hepatic ischemia followed by 10 min of reperfusion.

RESULTS

In partial hepatectomized rats with 30 min of Pringle maneuver, seven out of 12 rats died within 3 days. On the other hand, when splenectomy was performed on 3 days before the maneuver, only one out of 12 rats died. When prior splenectomy was performed on eight and 18 days before the Pringle maneuver, respectively, similar efficacy was observed. In addition, prior splenectomy on 3 days before the maneuver showed that serum ALT activity, neutrophil infiltration, recovery of remnant liver weight, and PCNA levels in partial hepatectomized rats with Pringle maneuver were also ameliorated as compared with those of control rats without splenectomy. When effects of prior splenectomy were compared with those of ischemic preconditioning in these situations, efficacy of prior splenectomy was comparable with that of the ischemic preconditioning.

CONCLUSIONS

Prior splenectomy ameliorated the I/R injury in the remnant liver after partial hepatectomy with Pringle maneuver. Effects of prior splenectomy may influence the liver for long duration, because splenectomy on 18 days before the maneuver still exerts effective action.

A case of successful management of portosystemic shunt with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease by balloon-occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration and partial splenic embolization

We describe a patient with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease who was successfully managed for severe abdominal distension, impaired liver function and a portosystemic shunt by interventional therapies. The patient's intra-hepatic portal vein was compressed and narrowed by multiple liver cysts, which resulted in a decrease of the portal blood flow and portal hypertension due to a huge gastro-renal shunt These haemodynamic changes were assumed to contribute to insufficient protein synthesis in the liver. Therefore, we first repeatedly performed minocycline hydrochloride instillations to treat the multiple liver cysts. Then, we conducted a partial splenic embolization to prevent elevation of the portal vein pressure prior to balloon-occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration which was performed to increase the portal blood flow. The portal blood flow markedly increased, and protein synthesis in the liver also recovered and the clinical symptoms improved. The patient has been monitored for more than two years up to the present and her liver function parameters have remained within the normal range. Renal insufficiency is known to be a major prognostic factor in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease. In some cases, however, liver involvement with multiple cysts may result in a fatal outcome. In such cases, interventional therapies, as provided to this patient, should be considered.

Splenectomy in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma and hypersplenism

BACKGROUND

Hypersplenism secondary to portal hypertension is common in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but surgeons still face the unresolved problem of how to manage HCC patients with hypersplenism.

STUDY DESIGN

The records of 48 patients with HCC and hypersplenism were retrospectively examined and postoperative changes in platelet counts, serum total bilirubin levels, and dinical staging scores were analyzed to evaluate the clinical value of combined splenectomy and liver resection. Hepatectomy and splenectomy were performed as a two-stage operation in 13 patients and synchronously in 35.

RESULTS

Postoperative platelet counts were significantly increased, and serum total bilirubin levels were significantly decreased. Clinical staging scores were also reduced after splenectomy in patients who underwent splenectomy before hepatectomy.

CONCLUSIONS

Synchronous or metachronous splenectomy can increase the safety of hepatectomy in selected patients with HCC by reducing both the likelihood of bleeding complications and bilirubin overload.

Preoperative embolization of gastric arteries for esophageal cancer

BACKGROUND

We developed a novel treatment of preoperative embolization therapy in an attempt to prevent anastomotic leakage after esophageal resection. We report the results of this new treatment.

METHODS

Preoperative embolization therapy (PET) was performed in 24 cases of esophageal carcinoma. The femoral artery was punctured, and celiac angiography was performed. The left gastric artery and splenic artery underwent embolization. The right gastric artery then underwent embolization at a site beyond the second or third branch to the gastric wall. With a laser flow meter the stomach tissue blood flow was measured before and after construction of the gastric tube, and the change in blood flow was compared.

RESULTS

The average decrease in gastric blood flow was 23% in patients with PET and 65% in patients without PET. Twenty-one (88%) of 24 cases maintained more than 50% tissue blood flow in patients with PET and in 1 (8%) of 12 in patients without PET (p < 0.001 by t test). No serious complications occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative embolization therapy is a safe and uncomplicated technique, and tissue blood flow in the stomach was better preserved. This new technique is expected to reduce the frequency of anastomotic leakage after esophageal operation.