Spleen Embolization: Function Loss and Diagnosis After Injury - Surgery

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Spleen embolization is a medical procedure often performed in cases of splenic injury, such as a rupture due to trauma, like in your daughter's case. This procedure involves blocking the blood vessels supplying the spleen to control bleeding and prevent further complications. While embolization can be life-saving, it does have implications for the spleen's function.


Function Loss After Embolization
After a splenic embolization, the spleen does not function in the same way as it did prior to the procedure. The primary role of the spleen includes filtering blood, recycling iron, and playing a crucial role in the immune response by producing antibodies and filtering out old or damaged blood cells. When the blood supply to the spleen is cut off through embolization, the tissue may become necrotic (die) over time, leading to a gradual loss of these functions.
However, it is important to note that the spleen may not disappear entirely. Instead, it may shrink and become fibrotic, which means it can still exist in a non-functional state. The complete loss of splenic function, akin to a splenectomy (surgical removal of the spleen), may not occur immediately but can develop over time.

Diagnosis of Splenic Function
To assess the current function of the spleen after embolization, several diagnostic tests can be performed:
1. Ultrasound: This imaging test can help visualize the spleen's size and structure. It can indicate whether the spleen has shrunk or if there are any complications such as abscess formation.

2. CT Scan: A computed tomography (CT) scan can provide a more detailed view of the spleen and surrounding structures. It can help assess the extent of any damage and the overall condition of the spleen post-embolization.

3. Blood Tests: Certain blood tests can help evaluate the spleen's function indirectly. For example, a complete blood count (CBC) can show changes in blood cell counts that might indicate how well the spleen is functioning.
4. Nuclear Medicine Scans: A splenic scan using radioactive isotopes can assess the functional capacity of the spleen. This test can help determine how well the spleen is filtering blood and its overall activity.


Implications for Health
The loss of splenic function can have significant health implications. The spleen plays a vital role in the immune system, particularly in fighting infections caused by encapsulated bacteria (like Streptococcus pneumoniae). Patients who have lost splenic function, either through embolization or splenectomy, may be at increased risk for infections and may require vaccinations and prophylactic antibiotics.


Conclusion
In summary, after splenic embolization, the spleen may lose its function, but it may not disappear entirely. To determine the current functional status of the spleen, imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scans, along with blood tests, can be utilized. It is essential to follow up with your healthcare provider for appropriate monitoring and management of any potential complications or health risks associated with splenic dysfunction. If you are applying for insurance coverage, having these diagnostic tests documented will be crucial in establishing the current state of your daughter's splenic function.