Splenic Artery Switch for Revascularization of the Liver: A Salvage Procedure for Inflammatory Arterial Hemorrhage

Background Hemorrhage caused by inflammatory vessel erosion represents a life-threatening complication after upper abdominal surgery such as pancreatic head resection. The gold standard therapeutic choice is an endovascular minimally invasive technique such as embolization or stent placement. Hepatic arterial hemorrhage in presence of pancreatitis and peritonitis is a particular challenge is if a standard therapeutic option is not possible. Methods The management of five patients with massive bleeding from the common hepatic artery is described. All patients underwent a splenic artery switch. The splenic artery was dissected close to the splenic hilum and transposed end-to-end to the common hepatic artery after resection of the eroded part. Patients’ medical records, radiology reports, and images were reviewed retrospectively. Technical success was defined as immediate cessation of hemorrhage and preserved liver vascularization. Clinical success was defined as hemodynamic stability and adequate long-term liver function. Results Total pancreatectomy and splenectomy were performed in four of the five cases. Hemodynamic stability and good liver perfusion was achieved in these patients. Conclusions Splenic artery switch is an effective, safe procedure for revascularization of the liver in case of hepatic arterial hemorrhage following pancreatic surgery, pancreatitis, and/or peritonitis. The technique is a promising option if a standard procedure—e.g., stent implantation, embolization and surgical repair with alloplastic prosthesis or autologous venous interposition graft—is not possible.