Routine repeat imaging of blunt splenic injuries identifies complications prior to clinical change

Background There are no definitive recommendations guiding repeat imaging, or its timing, in patients with blunt splenic injury managed non-operatively. This study examines delayed complications and interventions in patients with blunt splenic injuries who undergo repeat imaging. Imaging was prompted either by a clinical change (CC) or non-clinical change (NCC) including institutional recommendations and individual physician practice patterns. Methods: A 3-year, retrospective, dual-institution study was conducted of adult patients with blunt splenic injuries. Patients who underwent repeat imaging were grouped based on the reason for scan: CC or NCC. The incidence of delayed complications and interventions was examined. Results: Of 235 patients, 105 (45%) underwent repeat imaging [CC (n) = 67 (64%), NCC (n) = 38 (36%)]. Median time to repeat imaging was shorter in the NCC group [CC = 96 (IQR 48-192) hours, NCC = 48 (IQR 36-68) hours, p = .0005]. Delayed complications were found in 28 (42%) CC patients versus 18 (47%) NCC patients (p = .683). Interventions for complications were performed in 6 (21%) CC versus 10 (56%) NCC (p = .027). Discussion: Nearly half of patients reimaged because of NCC were found to have complications, with more than half undergoing intervention. Complications were identified and treated earlier in the NCC group than the CC group. This suggests patients with blunt splenic injuries should undergo routine repeat imaging to allow for prompt identification and treatment of delayed complications.