Splenic arteriovenous fistula treated with percutaneous transarterial embolization

Abstract

Splenic arteriovenous fistula is a rare complication following splenectomy. We report a case of a large splenic arteriovenous fistula 23 years after splenectomy in a 50-year old male with abdominal pain, gastro-intestinal bleeding, ascites, diarrhoea, dyspnoea, portal hypertension and heart failure. The arteriovenous fistula was successfully treated with percutaneous transarterial embolization and the patient gained almost complete recovery. This case demonstrates the usefulness of embolization of an otherwise surgical demanding arteriovenous fistula.