Splenic arteriovenous fistula

Abstract

We present a case of a splenic arteriovenous fistula (AVF) occurring postsplenectomy. The splenectomy was performed as a result of severe blunt abdominal trauma. The fistula was discovered in the postoperative period and controlled with intravascular coils. Splenic AVF are usually due to rupture of a pre-existing splenic artery aneurysm, post-traumatic, or iatrogenic. Diagnosis and treatment of a splenic AVF are necessary to prevent the development of hepatosclerosis and esophageal varices.