Hand-held thoracic sonography for detecting post-traumatic pneumothoraces: the Extended Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (EFAST). ACTA ACUST UNITED AC. 2004;57:288-295. [PMID: 15345974 DOI: 10.1097/ta.0b013e3182569849]

Contemporary management of adult splenic injuries: What you need to know

ABSTRACT

The spleen is a frequently injured organ, with over 40,000 adult splenic injuries occurring yearly. It plays an important role in the body's immune system, so surgeons should make every effort to perform splenic salvage when able. In blunt injury, indications for emergent splenectomy have not recently changed and include hemodynamic instability and peritonitis. A computed tomography (CT) scan with intravenous contrast is the preferred imaging modality for hemodynamically normal patients and should be used to classify the grade of injury and identify active bleeding and its stigmata. Nonoperative management has been successful for all grades of blunt injury (80-95%), but it is the job of the surgeon to carefully select the patient, in the context of their age, other associated injuries, and splenic CT findings, so this success rate remains high. Angioembolization is an important tool for splenic salvage that should be used when an actively bleeding vessel is observed on CT scan. Both proximal and distal embolizations are effective with no data to suggest that one is superior to the other. All patients selected for nonoperative management require close monitoring, which can include interval CT scans for high-grade injuries. Penetrating splenic injuries differ from blunt injuries because they are more likely to be surgically explored on presentation and they have a higher operative splenorrhaphy rate.

Interventional radiology in pediatric blunt liver and spleen injuries: A multicenter retrospective observational study

BACKGROUND

Nonoperative management (NOM) is the standard of care for hemodynamically stable pediatric blunt liver and/or spleen injuries (BLSIs). The value of interventional radiology (IR) in NOM of pediatric BLSIs is not clearly established. This study aimed to describe the use and outcomes of IR in the management of pediatric BLSIs.

METHODS

This post hoc analysis examined data from an 83-center retrospective study called the Splenic and Hepatic Injury in Pediatric Patients study in Japan. Participants included patients 16 years or younger who sustained BLSIs and received IR interventions between January 2008 and December 2019. The patients were categorized based on the indication for initial IR: acute hemorrhage, delayed hemorrhage/ruptured pseudoaneurysm, unruptured pseudoaneurysm, and others. The primary endpoint was IR failure, defined as requiring laparotomy after deciding for NOM with IR. Descriptive statistics were used to illustrate the baseline patient characteristics and IR treatment details.

RESULTS

Among the 1,462 pediatric patients with BLSIs, 316 patients who underwent IR were evaluated. The median patient age was 11 years, and 68% were male. Organ injuries included 176, 118, and 20 splenic, liver, and simultaneous injuries, respectively. Contrast extravasation on pre-IR computed tomography imaging was found in 60.6% of the patients. The median time to IR from admission varied by indication, with the acute hemorrhage group treated in approximately 2 hours. Transcatheter arterial embolization was performed in 273 patients. In-hospital complications occurred in 7%, with IR-related complications in 0.6%. Interventional radiology failed in 3.8% of the patients, and the in-hospital mortality rate was 1.9%. Splenic salvage was successful in 98.4% of the patients.

CONCLUSION

Interventional radiology demonstrated low failure and procedural complication rates in pediatric BLSIs.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic/Care Management; Level IV.

Surgical management of injuries to the abdomen in patients with multiple and/or severe trauma- a systematic review and clinical practice guideline update

PURPOSE

Our aim was to update evidence-based and consensus-based recommendations for the surgical management of abdominal injuries in patients with multiple and/or severe injuries based on current evidence. This guideline topic is part of the 2022 update of the German Guideline on the Treatment of Patients with Multiple and/or Severe Injuries.

METHODS

MEDLINE and Embase were systematically searched to May 2021. Further literature reports were obtained from clinical experts. Randomised controlled trials, prospective cohort studies, cross-sectional studies and comparative registry studies were included if they compared interventions for the surgical management of abdominal injuries in patients with multiple and/or severe injuries. We considered patient-relevant clinical outcomes such as mortality, length of stay, and diagnostic test accuracy. Risk of bias was assessed using NICE 2012 checklists. The evidence was synthesised narratively, and expert consensus was used to develop recommendations and determine their strength.

RESULTS

Three studies were identified. The topics of these studies were nonoperative management in haemodynamically stable patients with isolated blunt hepatic (n = 1) or splenic injuries (n = 1) and selective angioembolisation (n = 1). None of the recommendations were modified, one new recommendation was developed, and one was deleted based on the updated evidence and expert consensus. All recommendations achieved strong consensus.

CONCLUSION

The following recommendations are made. All but one of the previous guideline recommendations were confirmed. The recommendation to perform diagnostic peritoneal lavage in exceptional cases was completely deleted. An additional recommendation was made and states that the performance of a diagnostic laparoscopy can be considered in haemodynamically stable patients with penetrating trauma when there is therapeutic uncertainty.

Splenectomy versus angioembolization for severe splenic injuries in a national trauma registry: To save, or not to save, the spleen, that is the question

BACKGROUND

The use of angioembolization as a first approach for treating severe, blunt splenic injuries has increased recently, yet evidence showing its superiority to immediate splenectomy is lacking. We compared the prognosis of angioembolization versus splenectomy in patients presenting hemodynamically unstable with high-grade, image-confirmed, blunt splenic injuries in a nationally representative dataset.

METHODS

We queried the 2017-2022 Trauma Quality Improvement Program database for adults with blunt splenic injury abbreviated injury scale = 4-5, with arrival systolic blood pressure <90 mm Hg, and treated with either angioembolization or splenectomy <6 hours of arrival after a computed tomography scan. Entropy balancing was used to adjust for confounders.

RESULTS

Of 1,360 patients, 328 (24.1%) underwent angioembolization and 1,032 (75.9%) splenectomy. Treatment with angioembolization first was more likely in recent years, in level 1 trauma centers, for less severe spleen injuries, in the absence of head injuries. Angioembolization and splenectomy had similar entropy balancing-adjusted survival (entropy balancing hazard ratio = 1.02; 95% confidence interval: 0.97-1.07, P = .49). One-fifth of those with angioembolization first required rescue splenectomy <6 hours, mostly those with spleen injury grade 5 and additional abdominal injuries. Although this resulted in worse survival (hazard ratio: 1.12; 95% confidence Interval: 0.99-1.26) than successful angioembolization, the survival was not significantly worse than those treated with splenectomy first (entropy balancing hazard ratio: 1.07; 95% confidence Interval: 0.96-1.20).

CONCLUSION

Angioembolization was associated with similar survival to splenectomy first for patients arriving hypotensive with severe, image-confirmed blunt splenic injuries, suggesting that it was an appropriate treatment decision. Although survival was worse after failed angioembolization than after successful angioembolization, it was not worse than splenectomy first, suggesting that the attempt to preserve the spleen was justified.

Retrospective Observational Study of the Management of Blunt Traumatic Splenic Injury 2017-2022 at Major Trauma Centres in England. What is the Current Role of Splenic Artery Embolisation?

BACKGROUND

PURPOSE: To compare the treatment and outcomes of blunt splenic injury (BSI) management strategy within Major Trauma centres in England between 2017 and 2022.

METHODS

Data was extracted from UK TARN (Trauma Audit Research Network) identifying all splenic injuries admitted to English Major Trauma Centres (MTCs) between 01/01/17 and 31/12/21. Mechanism, injuries, treatment and outcomes were compared between management strategies according to American Association of Surgery in Trauma (AAST) grade over the period. The main endpoints of splenic salvage rate, along with mortality and length of stay were compared between the treatment options.

RESULTS

3,723 patients sustained BSI; 2,906 (78.1%) were managed conservatively, 491 (13.2%) underwent embolisation while 326 (8.8%) underwent splenectomy. There were 1895 (50.9%) AAST grade 2 injuries, 1019 (27.4%) grade 3, 592 (15.9%) grade 4 and 247 (6.6%) grade 5. Embolisation was successful (i.e. no subsequent splenectomy) for 465/491 (94.7%). The length of stay of discharged patients in the splenectomy group was longer than in those receiving embolisation (p = 0.001) or conservative management (p < 0.001) (median (IQR) of 12 (7, 27), 10 (6, 19), 10 (6, 20) days, respectively). Mortality at 30 days was not significantly different in those who underwent splenectomy (12.3%) compared to embolisation (8.6%) and conservative management (11.5%) (p = 0.129).

CONCLUSION

Splenic embolisation results in a high rate of splenic salvage.

Impact of early arterial-phase multidetector CT in blunt spleen injury: a clinical outcomes-oriented study

BACKGROUND

Blunt spleen injuries (BSI) present significant diagnostic and management challenges in trauma care. Current guidelines recommend arterial-phase contrast-enhanced multidetector computed tomography (CT) for a detailed assessment. However, the direct impact of add-on arterial phase CT on clinical outcomes remains unclear. This study investigated the impact of early arterial-phase imaging via multidetector CT on the clinical outcomes of patients with blunt splenic injuries.

METHODS

A retrospective case-control study was conducted to analyze the data of adult patients with BSI treated at a single institution between 2019 and 2022. Patients were divided based on the CT phase performed: portal vein phase only or add-on arterial phase. Management methods were divided according to the initial treatment intent: nonoperative management observation (NOM-Obs), transarterial embolization (TAE), and splenectomy. NOM failure refers to either NOM-Obs or TAE failure leading to splenectomy. NOM-Obs failure refers to cases initially managed with observation only, but later requiring either TAE or splenectomy. Transarterial embolization (TAE) failure refers to cases initially treated with TAE, but subsequently requiring splenectomy. Inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) was used to balance baseline differences and compare outcomes between the two groups.

RESULTS

Of 170 patients assessed, 147 met the inclusion criteria and were divided into two groups: those receiving portal vein phasic-only CT (N = 104) and those receiving add-on arterial phasic CT (N = 43). The overall NOM failure rate was 3.0% (4/132), the NOM-OBS failure rate was 6.7% (4/60), and the TAE failure rate was 4.1% (3/73). After adjusting for covariates using inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW), the comparison between the add-on arterial phase and portal phase CT groups revealed similar overall NOM failure rates (3.0% vs. 2.2%, p = 0.721), NOM-OBS failure rates (3.8% vs. 6.2%, p = 0.703), and intra-abdominal bleeding-related mortality rates (4.8% vs. 2.1%, p = 0.335). Among the 43 patients who underwent add-on arterial CT, only one was diagnosed with a tiny pseudoaneurysm (0.7 cm) attributable to the inclusion of the arterial phase.

CONCLUSION

Dual-phase CT within 24 h of presentation offers no added value over single-phase CT in managing blunt splenic injuries in terms of clinical outcomes.

Prophylactic embolization vs observation for high-grade blunt trauma splenic injury: a systematic review with meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this systematic review was to compare the effectiveness of prophylactic angioembolization with observation as primary management strategies for patients with high-grade (grades 3-5) blunt trauma splenic injury.

INTRODUCTION

The spleen is commonly injured in abdominal trauma. Historical management practices involved splenectomy, but more recent evidence suggests an increased risk of severe infections and sepsis associated with this approach. Accordingly, nonoperative management strategies, including prophylactic splenic artery embolization and clinical observation, have gained prominence. This systematic review with meta-analysis directly compared angioembolization with clinical observation for high-grade splenic injuries only, aiming to provide clarity on this matter amid ongoing debates and variations in clinical practice.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

This review included adult patients aged 15 years or older with high-grade splenic injuries (grades 3-5) due to blunt trauma. Outcomes of interest include the need for further intervention (failure of management), mortality, complications, red blood cell transfusion requirements, hospital length of stay, and intensive care unit length of stay.

METHODS

A comprehensive search of PubMed, Embase, and CINAHL (EBSCOhost) was performed, with no restrictions on language or publication date. Gray literature was searched, including trial registries and relevant conference proceedings. After deduplication, 2 reviewers independently assessed titles and abstracts, and, subsequently, full-text articles for eligibility. Methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using standardized instruments from JBI. Data were extracted using predefined templates, and statistical meta-analysis was performed, where possible, using a random-effects model. Heterogeneity was assessed using statistical methods, and potential publication bias was tested with a funnel plot. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach was used to evaluate the certainty of evidence.

RESULTS

Sixteen studies were included in this review. Methodological quality assessment indicated some risk of bias in most studies, with concerns primarily related to differences in injury severity and potential confounding factors. Meta-analysis revealed that prophylactic angioembolization significantly reduced risk of management failure by 57% (OR 0.43, 95% CI 0.28-0.68, I2 =53%, 15 studies) and decreased patient mortality by 37% (OR 0.63, 95% CI 0.43-0.93, I2 =0%, 9 studies) compared with clinical observation alone. There was a 47% reduction in risk of complications associated with prophylactic embolization compared with clinical observation (OR 0.53, 95% CI 0.29-0.95, I2 =0%, 4 studies). Some statistical heterogeneity was observed, with I2 ranging from 0% to 53%. No significant differences were observed between the 2 management strategies for red blood cell transfusion requirements or hospital length of stay.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this review support the use of prophylactic embolization for high-grade blunt trauma splenic injuries, indicated by lower rates of management failure, reduced need for additional interventions, lower mortality, and fewer complications.

REVIEW REGISTRATION

PROSPERO CRD42023420220.

Clinical management of active bleeding: what the emergency radiologist needs to know

Active bleeding is a clinical emergency that often requires swift action driven by efficient communication. Extravasation of intravenous (IV) contrast on computed tomography (CT) is a hallmark of active hemorrhage. This can be seen on exams performed for a variety of indications and can occur anywhere in the body. As both traumatic and non-traumatic etiologies of significant blood loss are clinical emergencies, exams demonstrating active bleeding are often performed in emergency departments and read by emergency radiologists. Prompt communication of these findings to the appropriate emergency medicine and surgical providers is crucial. Although many types of active hemorrhage can be managed by interventional radiology techniques, endoscopic and surgical management or clinical observation may be appropriate in certain cases. To facilitate optimal care, it is important for emergency radiologists to understand the scope of indications for embolization of bleeding by interventional radiologists (IR) and when an IR consultation is warranted. Similarly, timely comprehensive diagnostic radiology reporting including pertinent positive and negative findings tailored for IR colleagues can expedite the appropriate intervention.

Complications and failure rate of splenic artery angioembolization following blunt splenic trauma: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Over recent decades, splenic angioembolization (SAE) as an adjunct to non-operative management (NOM) has emerged as a prominent intervention for patients with blunt splenic injuries (BSI). SAE improves patient outcomes, salvages the spleen, and averts complications associated with splenectomy. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the failure rate and complications related to SAE in patients with BSI.

METHODS

A systematic literature search (PubMed, SCOPUS, and Cochrane Library) focused on studies detailing splenic angioembolization in blunt trauma cases. Articles that fulfilled the predetermined inclusion criteria were included. This review examined the indications, outcomes, failure rate, and complications of SAE.

RESULTS

Among 599 identified articles, 33 met the inclusion criteria. These comprised 29 retrospective studies, three prospective studies, and one randomized control trial. The analysis encompassed 25,521 patients admitted with BSI and 3,835 patients who underwent SAE. The overall failure rate of SAE was 5.3 %. Major complications predominantly were rebleeding (4.8 %), infarction (4.6 %), and abscess formation (4 %). Minor complications were fever (18.4 %), pleural effusion (13.1 %), and coil migration (3.9 %). Other complications included splenic atrophy, splenic cyst, hematoma, and access site complications such as splenic/femoral dissection. Overall, post embolization mortality was 0.08 %.

CONCLUSION

SAE is a valuable adjunct in managing BSI, with a low failure rate. However, this treatment modality is not without the risk of potentially serious complications.

Angioembolization in patients with blunt splenic trauma in Germany -guidelines vs. Reality a retrospective registry-based cohort study of the TraumaRegister DGU®

PURPOSE

Nonoperative management (NOM) for blunt splenic injuries (BSIs) is supported by both international and national guidelines in Germany, with high success rates even for severe organ injuries. Angioembolization (ANGIO) has been recommended for stabilizable patients with BSI requiring intervention since the 2016 German National Trauma Guideline. The objectives were to study treatment modalities in the adult BSI population according to different severity parameters including NOM, ANGIO and splenectomy in Germany.

METHODS

Between 2015 and 2020, a retrospective registry-based cohort study was performed on patients with BSIs with an Abbreviated Injury Score ≥ 2 in Germany using registry data from the TraumaRegister DGU® (TR DGU). This registry includes patients which were treated in a resuscitation room and spend more than 24-h in an intensive care unit or died in the resuscitation room.

RESULTS

A total of 2,782 patients with BSIs were included in the analysis. ANGIO was used in 28 patients (1.0%). NOM was performed in 57.5% of all patients, predominantly those with less severe organ injuries measured by the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma Organ Injury Scale (AAST) ≤ 2. The splenectomy rate for patients with an AAST ≥ 3 was 58.5%, and the overall mortality associated with BSI was 15%.

CONCLUSIONS

In this cohort splenic injuries AAST ≥ 3 were predominantly managed surgically and ANGIO was rarely used to augment NOM. Therefore, clinical reality deviates from guideline recommendations regarding the use of ANGIO and NOM. Local interdisciplinary treatment protocols might close that gap in the future.

Standardizing quality utilization of interventional radiology treatments of blunt splenic injury: SQUIRTS study

OBJECTIVES

Nonoperative management (NOM) of blunt splenic injury (BSI) is well accepted in appropriate patients. Splenic artery embolization (SAE) in higher-grade injuries likely plays an important role in increasing the success of NOM. We previously implemented a protocol requiring referral of all BSI grades III-V undergoing NOM for SAE. It is unknown the risk of complications as well as longitudinal outcomes. We aimed to examine the splenic salvage rate and safety profile of the protocol. We hypothesized the splenic salvage rate would be high and complications would be low.

METHODS

A retrospective study was performed at our Level 1 trauma center over a 9-year period. Injury characteristics and outcomes in patients sustaining BSI grades III-V were collected. Outcomes were compared for NOM on protocol (SAE) and off protocol (no angiography or angiography but no embolization). Complications for angiographies were examined.

RESULTS

Between January 2010 and February 2019, 570 patients had grade III-V BSI. NOM was attempted in 359 (63 %) with overall salvage rate of 91 % (328). Of these, 305 were on protocol while 54 were off protocol (41 no angiography and 13 angiography but no SAE). During the study period, for every grade of injury a pattern was seen of a higher salvage rate in the on-protocol group when compared to the off-protocol group (Grade III, 97 %(181/187) vs. 89 %(32/36), Grade IV, 91 %(98/108) vs. 69 %(9/13) and Grade V, 80 %(8/10 vs. 0 %(0/5). The overall salvage rate was 94 %(287) on protocol vs. 76 %(41) off protocol (p < 0.001, Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel test). Complications occurred in only 8 of the 318 who underwent angiography (2 %). These included 5 access complications and 3 abscesses.

CONCLUSION

The use of a protocol requiring routine splenic artery embolization for all high-grade spleen injuries slated for non-operative management is safe with a very low complication rate. NOM with splenic angioembolization failure rate is improved as compared to non-SAE patients' at all higher grades of injury. Thus, SAE for all hemodynamically stable patients of all high-grade types should be considered as a primary form of therapy for such injuries.

Evaluation of the Impact of a Less-Invasive Trunk and Pelvic Trauma Protocol on Mortality in Patients with Severe Injury by Interrupted Time-Series Analysis

Background and Objectives: Minimally invasive trauma management, including interventional radiology and non-operative approaches, has proven effective. Consequently, our hospital established a trauma IVR protocol called "Ohta Nishinouchi Hospital trauma protocol (ONH trauma protocol) in 2013, mainly for trunk trauma. However, the efficacy of the ONH trauma protocol has remained unverified. We aimed to assess the protocol's impact using interrupted time-series analysis (ITSA). Materials and Methods: This retrospective cohort study was conducted at Ohta Nishinouchi hospital, a tertiary emergency hospital, from January 2004 to December 2019. We included patients aged ≥ 18 years who presented to our institution due to severe trauma characterized by an Abbreviated Injury Scale of ≥3 in any region. The primary outcome was the incidence of in-hospital deaths per 100 transported patients with trauma. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted with in-hospital mortality as the outcome, with no exposure before protocol implementation and with exposure after protocol implementation. Results: Overall, 4558 patients were included in the analysis. The ITSA showed no significant change in in-hospital deaths after protocol induction (level change -1.49, 95% confidence interval (CI) -4.82 to 1.84, p = 0.39; trend change -0.044, 95% CI -0.22 to 0.14, p = 0.63). However, the logistic regression analysis revealed a reduced mortality effect following protocol induction (odds ratio: 0.50, 95% CI: 0.37 to 0.66, p < 0.01, average marginal effects: -3.2%, 95% CI: -4.5 to -2.0, p < 0.01). Conclusions: The ITSA showed no association between the protocol and mortality. However, before-and-after testing revealed a positive impact on mortality. A comprehensive analysis, including ITSA, is recommended over before-and-after comparisons to assess the impact of the protocol.

Machine Learning Detection and Characterization of Splenic Injuries on Abdominal Computed Tomography

BACKGROUND

Multi-detector contrast-enhanced abdominal computed tomography (CT) allows for the accurate detection and classification of traumatic splenic injuries, leading to improved patient management. Their effective use requires rapid study interpretation, which can be a challenge on busy emergency radiology services. A machine learning system has the potential to automate the process, potentially leading to a faster clinical response. This study aimed to create such a system.

METHOD

Using the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma (AAST), spleen injuries were classified into 3 classes: normal, low-grade (AAST grade I-III) injuries, and high-grade (AAST grade IV and V) injuries. Employing a 2-stage machine learning strategy, spleens were initially segmented from input CT images and subsequently underwent classification via a 3D dense convolutional neural network (DenseNet).

RESULTS

This single-centre retrospective study involved trauma protocol CT scans performed between January 1, 2005, and July 31, 2021, totaling 608 scans with splenic injuries and 608 without. Five board-certified fellowship-trained abdominal radiologists utilizing the AAST injury scoring scale established ground truth labels. The model achieved AUC values of 0.84, 0.69, and 0.90 for normal, low-grade injuries, and high-grade splenic injuries, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings demonstrate the feasibility of automating spleen injury detection using our method with potential applications in improving patient care through radiologist worklist prioritization and injury stratification. Future endeavours should concentrate on further enhancing and optimizing our approach and testing its use in a real-world clinical environment.

The use and timing of angioembolization in pediatric blunt liver and spleen injury

BACKGROUND

Nonoperative management (NOM) is the standard of care for the management of blunt liver and spleen injuries (BLSI) in the stable pediatric patient. Angiography with embolization (AE) is used as an adjunctive therapy in the management of adult BLSI patients, but it is rarely used in the pediatric population. In this planned secondary analysis, we describe the current utilization patterns of AE in the management of pediatric BLSI.

METHODS

After obtaining IRB approval at each center, cohort data was collected prospectively for children admitted with BLSI confirmed on CT at 10 Level I pediatric trauma centers (PTCs) throughout the United States from April 2013 to January 2016. All patients who underwent angiography with or without embolization for a BLSI were included in this analysis. Data collected included patient demographics, injury details, organ injured and grade of injury, CT finding specifics such as contrast blush, complications, failure of NOM, time to angiography and techniques for embolization.

RESULTS

Data were collected for 1004 pediatric patients treated for BLSI over the study period, 30 (3.0%) of which underwent angiography with or without embolization for BLSI. Ten of the patients who underwent angiography for BLSI failed NOM. For patients with embolized splenic injuries, splenic salvage was 100%. Four of the nine patients undergoing embolization of the liver ultimately required an operative intervention, but only one patient required hepatorrhaphy and no patient required hepatectomy after AE. Few angiography studies were obtained early during hospitalization for BLSI, with only one patient undergoing angiography within 1 hour of arrival at the PTC, and 7 within 3 hours.

CONCLUSION

Angioembolization is rarely used in the management of BLSI in pediatric trauma patients with blunt abdominal trauma and is generally used in a delayed fashion. However, when implemented, angioembolization is associated with 100% splenic salvage for splenic injuries.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic/Care Management; Level IV.

Pre- and post-implementation protocol for non-operative management of grade III-V splenic injuries: An observational study

Background

Grade (III-V) blunt splenic injuries (BSI) in hemodynamically stable patients represent clinical challenges for successful non-operative management (NOM). In 2014, Our institution proposed a treatment protocol requiring splenic angiography and embolization for stable, intermediate, and high-grade BSI. It also included a follow-up CT scan for grade III BSI. We sought to assess the success rate of NOM in treating intermediate and high-grade BSI, following a standardized treatment protocol at a level 1 trauma center.

Methods

An observational retrospective study was conducted. Data of patients with BSI from June 2011 to September 2019 were reviewed using the Qatar National Trauma Registry. Patients' demographics, CT scan and angiographic findings, grade of splenic injuries, and outcomes were analyzed. The pre- and post-implementation of treatment protocol periods were compared.

Results

During the study period, a total of 552 hemodynamically stable patients with BSI were admitted, of which 240 had BSI with grade III to V. Eighty-one patients (33.8%) were admitted in the pre-protocol implementation period and 159 (66.2%) in the post-protocol implementation period. The NOM rate increased from 50.6% in the pre-protocol group to 65.6% in the post-protocol group (p = 0.02). In addition, failure of the conservative treatment did not significantly differ in the two periods, while the requirement for blood transfusion dropped from 64.2% to 45.9% (p = 0.007). The frequency of CT scan follow-up (55.3% vs. 16.3%, p = 0.001) and splenic arterial embolization (32.7% vs. 2.5%, p = 0.001) in NOM patients increased significantly in the post-protocol group compared to the pre-protocol group. Overall mortality was similar between the two periods. However, hospital and ICU length of stay and ventilatory days were higher in the post-protocol group.

Conclusions

NOM is an effective and safe treatment option for grade III-V BSI patients. Using standardized treatment guidelines for intermediate-to high-grade splenic injuries could increase the success rate for NOM and limit unnecessary laparotomy. Moreover, angioembolization is a crucial adjunct to NOM that could improve the success rate.

Pediatric Blunt Splenic Trauma: Disparities in Management and Outcomes

INTRODUCTION

While nonoperative management has become widely accepted, whether nonoperative management of blunt splenic trauma is standardized across pediatric trauma centers and different racial groups warrants further investigation. Using the National Trauma Database, the purpose of this study was to quantify the differences in the management of pediatric splenic trauma across different pediatric trauma centers, with respect to injury severity, race, ethnicity, and insurance.

METHODS

Patients under 20 y of age with blunt splenic trauma reported to the 2018 and 2019 National Trauma Data Bank were identified. Primary outcomes were splenectomy, embolization, transfusion, mortality, injury severity score (ISS), and length of hospital stay (LOS) and length of intensive care unit stay. Continuous data and categorical data were analyzed using ANOVA and Chi-squared test, respectively. Nearest 1:1 neighbor matching was performed between minority patients and White patients. P < 0.05 for all comparative analyses was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Of the total cohort (n = 1919), 70.3% identified as White, while 21.6% identified as Black or Hispanic. The mortality rate was 0.3%. Among different race categories, the frequency of spleen embolization (P = 0.99), splenectomy (P = 0.99), blood transfusion (P = 1), and mortality (P = 1), were not significantly different. After controlling for ISS and age with propensity score matching, the mean hospital LOS remained significantly higher in minority patients, with a mean of 5.44 d compared to 4.72 d (P = 0.05). Mean length of intensive care unit stay was not significantly different after propensity matching, with a mean of 1.79 d and 1.56 spent in the ICU for minority and White patients respectively (P = 0.17). While propensity score matching preserved statistical significance, the ISS for the minority group remained 1.12 times higher than the ISS of the Caucasian group. There was no statistically significant difference among races with respect to different payment methods and insurance status, although Black and Hispanic patients were proportionally underinsured.

CONCLUSIONS

While minority patients had a relatively higher number of operative interventions and longer hospital and ICU stays, after propensity score matching, mean ISS remained higher in the minority group. Our findings suggest that injury severity is likely to influence the difference in LOS between the two groups. Furthermore, our data highlight how nonoperative management is not standardized across pediatric trauma centers.

[Modern approaches in endovascular and endoscopic treatment of isolated splenic injury]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze treatment outcomes in patients with traumatic spleen injury and improve their management through introduction of modern approaches.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed treatment outcomes in 126 patients with spleen injury who underwent surgery between 2018 and 2023. Analysis was performed using Excel and Statistica software, as well as Spearman correlation and χ2 tests. Differences were significant at p<0.05.

RESULTS

Open interventions were performed in 61 (48.4%) patients, endovascular embolization of splenic artery - in 25 (19.9%) patients. In total, organ-sparing procedures were used in 23 (18.2%) patients. Conservative management was possible in 17 (13.5%) cases. Predictors of early mortality were hemoglobin (r=-0.31; p<0.001), leukocytosis (r=0.12; p=0.01), thrombocytopenia (r=-0.1; p=0.04), spleen injury (r=0.21; p<0.001) and age (r=0.15; p=0.04). Surgery time correlated with hemoglobin level at admission and spleen injury (r=0.21; p=0.001 and r=0.18; p=0.002, respectively). Early endoscopic and endovascular interventions were associated with lower mortality (χ2=5.337; p=0.02 and χ2=3.991; p=0.04).

CONCLUSION

Modern therapeutic and diagnostic strategies, as well as minimally traumatic methods in patients with traumatic spleen damage reduce morbidity and mortality, as well as shorten rehabilitation.

[Endovascular technologies in the treatment of patients with blunt abdominal trauma]

Trauma is one of the leading causes of disability and mortality in working-age population. Abdominal injuries comprise 20-30% of traumas. Uncontrolled bleeding is the main cause of death in 30-40% of patients. Among abdominal organs, spleen is most often damaged due to fragile structure and subcostal localization. In the last two decades, therapeutic management has become preferable in patients with abdominal trauma and stable hemodynamic parameters. In addition to clinical examination, standard laboratory tests and ultrasound, as well as contrast-enhanced CT of the abdomen should be included in diagnostic algorithm to identify all traumatic injuries and assess severity of abdominal damage. Development of interventional radiological technologies improved preservation of damaged organs. Endovascular embolization can be performed selectively according to indications (leakage, false aneurysm, arteriovenous anastomosis) and considered for severe damage to the liver and spleen, hemoperitoneum or severe polytrauma. Embolization is essential in complex treatment of traumatic vascular injuries of parenchymal abdominal organs. We reviewed modern principles and methods of intra-arterial embolization for the treatment of patients with traumatic injuries of the liver and spleen.

Alahmad Y, Jaleel Z, Ahmed Z, Kaassamali R, Hasani AA, Al-Thani H, Omar A. The predictive value of CTSI scoring system in non-operative management of patients with splenic blunt trauma: The experience of a level 1 trauma center

Background

The spleen is one of the most injured organs following blunt abdominal trauma. The management options can be either operative or non-operative management (NOM) with either conservative management or splenic artery embolization. The implementation of CT in emergency departments allowed the use of CT imaging as a primary screening tool in early decision-making. Consecutively, new splenic injury scoring systems, such as the CT severity index (CTSI) reported was established.

Aim

The main aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of the implementation of CTSI scoring system on the management decision and outcomes in patients with blunt splenic trauma over 8 years in a level 1 trauma center.

Methods

This is a retrospective study including all adult patients with primary splenic trauma, having NOM and admitted to our hospital between 2013 and 2021.

Results

The analyses were conducted on ninety-nine patients. The average sample age was 32.7 ± 12.3 years old. A total of (63/99) patients had splenic parenchyma injury without splenic vascular injury. There is a statistically significant association between CTSI grade 3 injury and the development of delayed splenic vascular injury (p < 0.05). There is an association between severity of initial CTSI score and the risk of NOM/clinical failure (p = 0.02).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest implementing such a system in a level 1 trauma center will further improve the outcome of treatment for splenic blunt trauma. However, CTSI grade 3 is considered an increased risk of NOM failure, and further investigations are necessary to standardize its management.

Emergent vessel embolization for major traumatic and non-traumatic hemorrhage: Indications, tools and outcomes

Endovascular embolization of bleeding vessels in trauma and non-trauma patients is frequently used and is an important tool for bleeding control. It is included in the EVTM (endovascular resuscitation and trauma management) concept and its use in patients with hemodynamic instability is increasing. When the correct embolization tool is chosen, a dedicated multidisciplinary team can rapidly and effectively achieve bleeding control. In this article, we will describe the current use and possibilities for embolization of major hemorrhage (traumatic and non-traumatic) and the published data supporting these techniques as part of the EVTM concept.

Toward automated interpretable AAST grading for blunt splenic injury

BACKGROUND

The American Association for the Surgery of Trauma (AAST) splenic organ injury scale (OIS) is the most frequently used CT-based grading system for blunt splenic trauma. However, reported inter-rater agreement is modest, and an algorithm that objectively automates grading based on transparent and verifiable criteria could serve as a high-trust diagnostic aid.

PURPOSE

To pilot the development of an automated interpretable multi-stage deep learning-based system to predict AAST grade from admission trauma CT.

METHODS

Our pipeline includes 4 parts: (1) automated splenic localization, (2) Faster R-CNN-based detection of pseudoaneurysms (PSA) and active bleeds (AB), (3) nnU-Net segmentation and quantification of splenic parenchymal disruption (SPD), and (4) a directed graph that infers AAST grades from detection and segmentation results. Training and validation is performed on a dataset of adult patients (age ≥ 18) with voxelwise labeling, consensus AAST grading, and hemorrhage-related outcome data (n = 174).

RESULTS

AAST classification agreement (weighted κ) between automated and consensus AAST grades was substantial (0.79). High-grade (IV and V) injuries were predicted with accuracy, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of 92%, 95%, and 89%. The area under the curve for predicting hemorrhage control intervention was comparable between expert consensus and automated AAST grading (0.83 vs 0.88). The mean combined inference time for the pipeline was 96.9 s.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of our method were rapid and verifiable, with high agreement between automated and expert consensus grades. Diagnosis of high-grade lesions and prediction of hemorrhage control intervention produced accurate results in adult patients.

Factors associated with survival in adult trauma patients undergoing angiography with and without embolization across trauma centers in the United States

INTRODUCTION

Interventional angiography is increasingly utilized in trauma management for various injuries. Despite published guidelines by the Eastern Association for the Surgery of Trauma on the use of angiography, limited data exist on factors associated with outcomes in angiography procedures. This study examines factors associated with survival to hospital discharge in trauma patients undergoing angiography with or without embolization across US trauma centers.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective observational study used the National Trauma Data Bank 2017 dataset and included adult trauma patients who underwent conventional angiography with or without embolization. A bivariate analysis was done to compare patients' characteristics by outcome (survived/died), followed by a multivariable logistic regression analysis to determine factors associated with survival to hospital discharge after adjusting for important confounders.

RESULTS

In the included sample of 4242 patients, median age was 41 years and male gender was predominant (72.6%). Overall mean time to angiography was 263.77 ± 750.19 min. Factors positively associated with survival included treatment at large facilities with over 401 beds (OR = 2.170; 95% CI, [1.277-3.685]), helicopter ambulance/fixed-wing transport (OR = 1.736; 95% CI, [1.325-2.275]), mild Glasgow Coma Scale (OR = 7.621; 95% CI, [5.868-9.898]) and moderate Glasgow Coma Scale (OR = 3.127; 95% CI, [2.080-4.701]), SBP ≥ 90 (OR = 1.516; 95% CI [1.199-1.916]), and spleen as embolization site (OR = 1.647; 95% CI [1.119-2.423]).

CONCLUSION

This nationwide study identified variables associated with survival in trauma patients who underwent angiography. These variables can serve in creating standardized risk stratification tools that could be incorporated into evidence-based guidelines for angiography candidates.

Indicative factors for surgical or angiographic intervention in hemodynamically stable patients with blunt abdominal trauma: A retrospective cohort study

INTRODUCTION

The standard of care for intraperitoneal injury in hemodynamically stable patients after blunt abdominal trauma has been replaced by non-operative management (NOM). However, selective NOM, depending on the situation, seems necessary in determining the treatment plan. In this study, we attempted to identify risk factors for surgical or angiographic intervention (SAI) in hemodynamically stable blunt abdominal trauma patients.

METHODS

This retrospective study which included adult patients who were brought to a regional trauma center was conducted from March 2015 to October 2019. We evaluated the characteristics of blunt abdominal trauma patients and analyzed factors that were related to the requirement of SAI in these patients. Patients were divided into SAI and conservative management (CM) groups.

RESULTS

We reviewed 1,176 patients, and after exclusions, of whom 248 blunt abdominal trauma and free fluid observed on CT were identified. The mean pulse rate was higher in the SAI than in the CM (P=0.025). Laboratory findings showed that lactate and delta neutrophil index (DNI) levels were higher in the SAI than in the CM (P=0.002 and 0.026 respectively). Additionally, the mean free fluid size in the SAI (85.69mm) was significantly larger than that in the CM (68.12mm; P=0.001), and blush was more frequently observed in the SAI (P<0.001). In multivariate analysis, only blush was an independent prognostic factor for SAI (OR 11.7, 95% CI, 5.1-30.8, P<0.001).

CONCLUSION

In hemodynamically stable patients with blunt abdominal trauma, blush but also high lactate and DNI are associated with the requirement of interventional radiology and/or surgery.

Recent trends in the management of isolated high-grade splenic injuries: A nationwide analysis

BACKGROUND

The feasibility of nonoperative management for high-grade blunt splenic injuries (BSIs) has been suggested in recent studies. The purpose of this study was to assess nationwide trends in the management of isolated high-grade BSIs. We hypothesized that isolated high-grade BSIs are more frequently being managed nonoperatively.

METHODS

The American College of Surgeons Trauma Quality Improvement Program database was queried to identify patients (16 years or older) with isolated high-grade BSIs (Abbreviated Injury Scale, ≥3) between 2013 and 2019. Patients were divided into two groups based on their hemodynamic status (hemodynamically stable [HS] and hemodynamically unstable [HU]). The primary outcome was the rate of total splenectomy each year, and the secondary outcome was the use of splenic angioembolization (SAE). Multiple regression models were created to estimate annual trends in splenectomy and SAE.

RESULTS

A total of 6,747 patients with isolated high-grade BSIs were included: 5,714 (84.7%) and 1,033 (15.3%) in HS and HU groups, respectively. In the HS group, the rate of overall splenectomy was significantly decreased (from 22.9% in 2013 to 12.6% in 2019; odds ratio [OR] for 1-year increment, 0.850; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.815-0.886; p < 0.001), and the use of SAE was significantly increased (from 12.5% in 2013 to 20.9% in 2019; OR, 1.107; 95% CI, 1.065-1.150; p < 0.001). In the HU group, the overall splenectomy rate was unchanged (from 69.8% in 2013 to 50.8% in 2019; OR, 0.931; 95% CI, 0.865-1.002; p = 0.071), whereas SAE was significantly increased (from 12.7% in 2013 to 28.8% in 2019; OR, 1.176; 95% CI, 1.079-1.284; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

We observed significant trends toward more frequent use of nonoperative management in high-grade BSIs with hemodynamic stability. Further studies are warranted to define the role of SAE, especially in patients with hemodynamic instability.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic/Care Management; Level IV.

Follow-up strategies for patients with splenic trauma managed non-operatively: the 2022 World Society of Emergency Surgery consensus document

BACKGROUND

In 2017, the World Society of Emergency Surgery published its guidelines for the management of adult and pediatric patients with splenic trauma. Several issues regarding the follow-up of patients with splenic injuries treated with NOM remained unsolved.

METHODS

Using a modified Delphi method, we sought to explore ongoing areas of controversy in the NOM of splenic trauma and reach a consensus among a group of 48 international experts from five continents (Africa, Europe, Asia, Oceania, America) concerning optimal follow-up strategies in patients with splenic injuries treated with NOM.

RESULTS

Consensus was reached on eleven clinical research questions and 28 recommendations with an agreement rate ≥ 80%. Mobilization after 24 h in low-grade splenic trauma patients (WSES Class I, AAST Grades I-II) was suggested, while in patients with high-grade splenic injuries (WSES Classes II-III, AAST Grades III-V), if no other contraindications to early mobilization exist, safe mobilization of the patient when three successive hemoglobins 8 h apart after the first are within 10% of each other was considered safe according to the panel. The panel suggests adult patients to be admitted to hospital for 1 day (for low-grade splenic injuries-WSES Class I, AAST Grades I-II) to 3 days (for high-grade splenic injuries-WSES Classes II-III, AAST Grades III-V), with those with high-grade injuries requiring admission to a monitored setting. In the absence of specific complications, the panel suggests DVT and VTE prophylaxis with LMWH to be started within 48-72 h from hospital admission. The panel suggests splenic artery embolization (SAE) as the first-line intervention in patients with hemodynamic stability and arterial blush on CT scan, irrespective of injury grade. Regarding patients with WSES Class II blunt splenic injuries (AAST Grade III) without contrast extravasation, a low threshold for SAE has been suggested in the presence of risk factors for NOM failure. The panel also suggested angiography and eventual SAE in all hemodynamically stable adult patients with WSES Class III injuries (AAST Grades IV-V), even in the absence of CT blush, especially when concomitant surgery that requires change of position is needed. Follow-up imaging with contrast-enhanced ultrasound/CT scan in 48-72 h post-admission of trauma in splenic injuries WSES Class II (AAST Grade III) or higher treated with NOM was considered the best strategy for timely detection of vascular complications.

CONCLUSION

This consensus document could help guide future prospective studies aiming at validating the suggested strategies through the implementation of prospective trauma databases and the subsequent production of internationally endorsed guidelines on the issue.

Impact of site of occlusion in proximal splenic artery embolisation for blunt splenic trauma

Background

Proximal splenic artery embolisation (PSAE) can be performed in stable patients with Association for the Surgery of Trauma (AAST) grade III-V splenic injury. PSAE reduces splenic perfusion but maintains viability of the spleen and pancreas via the collateral circulation. The hypothesized ideal location is between the dorsal pancreatic artery (DPA) and great pancreatic artery (GPA). This study compares the outcomes resulting from PSAE embolisation in different locations along the splenic artery.

Materials and methods

Retrospective review was performed of PSAE for blunt splenic trauma (2015–2020). Embolisation locations were divided into: Type I, proximal to DPA; Type II, DPA-GPA; Type III, distal to GPA. Fifty-eight patients underwent 59 PSAE: Type I (7); Type II (27); Type III (25). Data was collected on technical and clinical success, post-embolisation pancreatitis and splenic perfusion. Statistical significance was assessed using a chi-squared test.

Results

Technical success was achieved in 100% of cases. Clinical success was 100% for Type I/II embolisation and 88% for Type III: one patient underwent reintervention and two had splenectomies for ongoing instability. Clinical success was significantly higher in Type II embolisation compared to Type III (p = 0.02). No episodes of pancreatitis occurred post-embolisation. Where post-procedural imaging was obtained, splenic perfusion remained 100% in Type I and II embolisation and 94% in Type III. Splenic perfusion was significantly higher in the theorized ideal Type II group compared to Type I and III combined (p = 0.01).

Conclusion

The results support the proposed optimal embolisation location as being between the DPA and GPA.

Management of High Grade Splenic Injuries in Rural America

BACKGROUND

Rural surgeons face unique challenges when managing patients with high-grade (III-V) blunt splenic injury (BSI) given limited access to interventional radiology and blood products. Patients therefore may require transfer for splenic artery embolization (SAE) when resuscitation may still be ongoing. This study aims to evaluate current resource utilization in a rural trauma population with limited access to SAE and blood products.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of adult patients with high-grade BSI at one Level 1 trauma center and two Level 2 trauma centers was performed. Patients were evaluated for resources used after transfer to the regional trauma center. Primary outcomes measured were SAE, operative management (OM), and blood product utilization. Secondary outcomes measured included injury severity score (ISS) and mortality.

RESULTS

Final analysis included 134 transferred patients. 16% underwent SAE, 16% underwent OM, and 69% were treated successfully with nonoperative and non-procedural management (NOM). 52% of the SAE patients had sustained a grade III splenic injury, 38% grade IV, and 10% grade V. 84% of patients required <3 units of packed red blood cells (PRBC) and 57% of patients required none. 80% of transferred patients required <3 total units of all combined blood products.

DISCUSSION

The majority of patients with BSI transferred to a tertiary trauma center from a rural facility were successfully managed without SAE and required minimal transfusion of blood products. In the absence of other injuries necessitating transfer to a tertiary trauma center, rural surgeons should consider management of high grade splenic injuries at their home institution.

Long-term incidence and timing of splenic pseudoaneurysm formation after blunt splenic injury: A descriptive study

BACKGROUND

Nonoperative management (NOM) has become a standard strategy for hemodynamically stable patients with blunt splenic injury; however, delayed rupture of splenic pseudoaneurysm (SPA) is a serious complication of NOM. In medical literature, data regarding the long-term incidence of SPA are scarce, and the appropriate timing for performing follow-up contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) has not yet been reported. This study aimed to elucidate the long-term incidence and timing of SPA formation after blunt splenic injury in patients treated with NOM.

METHODS

This descriptive study was conducted at a tertiary medical center in Japan. Patients with blunt splenic injury who were treated with NOM between April 2014 and August 2020 were included in the analysis. Included patients underwent repeated contrast-enhanced CT to detect SPA formation. The primary outcome was the cumulative incidence of delayed formation of SPA. We also evaluated differences in SPA formation between patients who received transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE; TAE group) and those who did not receive it (non-TAE group) on admission day.

RESULTS

Among 49 patients with blunt splenic injury who were treated with NOM, 5 patients (10.2%) had delayed formation of SPA. All cases of SPA formation occurred within 15 days of injury. The incidence of SPA formation was not significantly different between the TAE and non-TAE groups (1/19 vs. 4/30, P=.67).

CONCLUSIONS

SPA developed in 10% of patients within approximately 2 weeks after blunt splenic injury. Therefore, performing follow-up contrast-enhanced CT in this period after injury may be useful to evaluate delayed formation of SPA. Although our findings are novel, they should be confirmed through future studies with larger sample sizes.

Splenic artery embolization improves outcomes and decreases the length of stay in hemodynamically stable blunt splenic injuries - A level 1 Australian Trauma centre experience

BACKGROUND

Splenic injuries are the most common visceral injury following blunt abdominal trauma. Increasingly, non-operative management (NOM) and the use of adjunctive splenic angioembolization (ASE) is favoured over operative management (OM) for the hemodynamically stable patient. However, clinical predictors for successful NOM, particularly the role of ASE as an adjunct, remain poorly defined. This study aims to evaluate the outcomes of patients undergoing ASE vs NOM.

METHODS

A retrospective clinical audit was performed of all patients admitted with blunt splenic injury (BSI) from January 2005 to January 2018 at the Royal Adelaide Hospital. The primary outcome was ASE or NOM failure rate. Secondary outcomes were grade of splenic injury, Injury Severity Score (ISS), length of hospital stay (LOS), and delayed OM or re-angioembolization rates.

RESULTS

Of 208 patients with BSI, 60 (29%) underwent OM, 54 (26%) ASE, and 94 (45%) NOM only. Patients were predominantly male 165 (79%), with a median age of 33 (IQR 24-51) years. The median ISS was 29 (20-38). There was no difference in the overall success rates for each modality of primary management (48 (89%) ASE vs 77 (82%) NOM, p = 0.374), though patients managed with ASE were older (38 vs 30 years, p = 0.029), had higher grade of splenic injury (grade ≥ IV 42 (78%) vs 8 (8.5%), p<0.001), with increased rates of haemo-peritoneum (46 (85%) vs 51 (54%), p<0.001) and contrast blush (42 (78%) vs 2 (2%), p<0.001). However, for grade III splenic injury, patients managed with ASE had a trend towards better outcome with no failures when compared to the NOM group (0 (0%) vs 8 (35%), p = 0.070) with a significant reduction in LOS (7.2 vs 10.8 days, p = 0.042). Furthermore, the ASE group overall had a significantly shorter LOS compared to the NOM group (10.0 vs 16.0 days, p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

ASE as an adjunct to NOM significantly reduces the length of stay in BSI patients and is most successful in managing AAST grade III injuries.

Complications Following Splenic Embolization for Trauma: Have Things Changed Over Time?

INTRODUCTION

Splenic artery embolization (SAE) is a routinely used adjunct in the nonoperative management (NOM) of blunt splenic injury (BSI). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the rate and type of adverse events that occur in patients undergoing SAE and to compare this with the previous data.

METHODS

Patients who had SAE for BSI between 2011 and 2018 were identified. Splenic abscess, splenic infarction, and contrast-induced renal insufficiency were considered major complications. Coil migration, fever, and pleural effusions were regarded minor complications. The results were compared with data from a prior study examining similar indices at the same trauma center between 2000 and 2010.

RESULTS

There were 716 patients admitted with BSI. SAE was performed in 74 (13.3%) of the 557 (78%) NOM patients. The overall complication rate was 33.8%. Major complications occurred in 11 patients (14.9%) and minor in 13 patients (18.9%). There was no association between complications and coil location by logistic regression.

CONCLUSIONS

SAE continues to be a useful adjunct in the NOM of BSI though complications continue to occur. Fewer minor complications were noted in the period studied compared to past similar studies.

Non-operative management in blunt splenic trauma: A ten-years-experience at a Level 1 Trauma Center

Trauma; Spleen injuries are among the most frequent trauma-related injuries. The approach for diagnosis and management of Blunt Splenic Injury (BSI) has been considerably shifted towards Non- Operative Management (NOM) in the last few decades. NOM of blunt splenic injuries includes Splenic Angio-Embolization (SAE). Aim of this study was to analyze Pisa Level 1 trauma center (Italy) last 10-years-experience in the management of Blunt Splenic Trauma (BST), and more specifically to evaluate NOM rate and failure. Retrospective analysis of all patients admitted with blunt splenic trauma was done. They were divided into two groups according to the treatment: hemodynamically unstable patients treated operatively (OM group) and patients underwent a nonoperative management (NOM group). The CT scan performed in all NOM group patients. Univariate analysis was performed to identify differences between the two groups. Multivariate analysis adjusting for factors with a p value < 0.05 or with clinical relevance was used to identify possible risk factors for NOM failure. 193 consecutive patients with blunt splenic trauma were admitted. Emergency splenectomies were performed in 53 patients (OM group); 140 were managed non-operatively with or without SAE (NOM group). NOM rate in high grade injuries is 57%. Overall NOM failure rate is 9%, and success rate in high grade splenic injuries is 48%; multivariate analysis showed AAST score ≥3 as a risk factor for NOM failure. Non-operative management currently represents the gold standard management for hemodynamically stable patient with blunt splenic trauma even in high grade splenic injuries. AAST ≥3 spleen lesion is a failure risk factor but not a contraindication to for non-operative management.

Where Does Interventional Radiology Fit in with Trauma Management Algorithm?

Trauma is a major cause of death in the United States, particularly in the younger population. Many traumatic deaths, as well as major morbidity, occur secondary to uncontrolled hemorrhage and eventual exsanguination. Interventional radiology plays a major role in treating these patients, and interventional techniques have evolved to the point where they are an integral part of treatment in these critically ill patients. This article reviews the role of interventional radiology in the treatment algorithms for traumatic injury sponsored by major societies and associations.

The Current Role of Interventional Radiology in the Management of Acute Trauma Patient

Trauma is one of the most common causes of death, particularly in younger individuals. The development of specialized trauma centers, trauma-specific intensive care units, and trauma-focused medical subspecialties has led to the formation of comprehensive multidisciplinary teams and an ever-growing body of research and innovation. The field of interventional radiology provides a unique set of minimally invasive, endovascular techniques that has largely changed the way that many trauma patients are managed. This article discusses the role of interventional radiology in the care of this complex patient population, and in particular how the specialty fits into the overall team management of these patients.

Predictors of splenectomy after failure of non-operative management: An analysis of the nation trauma database from 2013 to 2014

Introduction

There is practice variability in non-operative management (NOM) of blunt splenic trauma. This is particularly true for management decisions following failure of NOM, i.e. splenectomy versus angioembolization (AE). The objective of this study was to identify predictors of splenectomy versus AE in patients who failed NOM.

Methods

We included adult patients from the National Trauma Data Bank for 2013–2014, who had a splenic injury and who were admitted to a Level I Trauma Center (L1TC). Patients undergoing splenectomy after 2 h of emergency department arrival were deemed to have failed NOM. Multivariate logistic regression modeling was used to identify independent predictors of intervention after failed NOM.

Results

There were 2284 patients admitted for splenic injury between 2013 and 2014 who failed NOM. A total of 1253 patients underwent AE and 1031 patients underwent splenectomy. Seven independent factors were identified that predicted failure of NOM: penetrating injury, community L1TC, hospital bed size, number of trauma surgeons on call, functional dependence, chronic steroid use, and cirrhosis.

Conclusions

Seven independent variables were identified that predicted failure of NOM. These results contribute to the body of data regarding management of blunt splenic injury. Knowing predictive factors could help personalize management of patients, minimize delay of care, efficient resource allocation, and inform future studies.

Failure of Nonoperative Management following Angioembolization for Blunt Splenic and Pancreatic Tail Injury

Background

Over several decades, standard management of blunt spleen injury (BSI) has been changed from operative intervention to the selective operative and nonoperative management (NOM). However, some patient needs laparotomy first. This article describes a case of a BSI patient who failed nonoperative management after angioembolization (AE). Case Presentation. A 58-year-old man fell from his motorcycle and was brought to our hospital. His vital sign was stable after extracellular fluid bolus. A contrast-enhanced computed tomography scan of the abdomen showed AAST grade V spleen injury. AE was performed for the splenic artery, but his systolic blood pressure suddenly dropped under 60 mmHg. The resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta was inserted, and immediate laparotomy was performed. A pancreatic tail injury was detected, and the splenic artery and vein were burst at the pancreatic tail and controlled by hemostatic suture. After splenectomy, a drain was placed at the pancreatic tail and the abdomen was temporally closed. The postoperative course was not remarkable except for abdominal abscess treated with antibiotics, and he was discharged on foot.

Conclusion

Although NOM is becoming one of the choices for severe BSI, there will still be a patient who requires surgery. Surgeons should be aware of the mechanism of injury and the limitation of AE as an adjunct to NOM. Patient selection for initial NOM and timing to convert to laparotomy are important.

Splenic artery angioembolization for high-grade splenic injury: Are we wasting money?

BACKGROUND

Non-operative management (NOM) is accepted treatment of splenic injury, but this may fail leading to splenectomy. Splenic artery embolization (SAE) may improve rate of salvage. The purpose is to determine the cost-utility of the addition of SAE for high-grade splenic injuries.

METHODS

A cost-utility analysis was developed to compared NOM to SAE in patients with blunt splenic injury. Sensitivity analysis was completed to account for uncertainty. Utility outcome was quality-adjusted life years (QALY).

RESULTS

For patients with grade III, IV and V injury NOM is the dominant strategy. The probability of NOM being the more cost-effective strategy is 87.5% in patients with grade V splenic injury. SAE is not the favored strategy unless the probability of failure of NOM is greater than 70.0%.

CONCLUSION

For grade III-V injuries, NOM without SAE yields more quality-adjusted life years. NOM without SAE is the most cost-effective strategy for high-grade splenic injuries.

Serial hemoglobin monitoring in adult patients with blunt solid organ injury: less is more

Background

Patients who sustain blunt solid organ injury to the liver, spleen, or kidney and are treated nonoperatively frequently undergo serial monitoring of their hemoglobin (Hb). We hypothesized that among initially hemodynamically stable patients with blunt splenic, hepatic, or renal injuries treated without an operation, scheduled monitoring of serum Hb values may be unnecessary as hemodynamic instability, not merely Hb drop, would prompt intervention.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of patients admitted to our urban Level 1 trauma center following blunt trauma with any grade III, IV, or V liver, spleen, or kidney injury from January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2016. Patients who were hemodynamically unstable and went directly to the operating room or interventional radiology were excluded. Patients who required any urgent or unplanned operative or angiographic intervention were compared with patients who did not require an intervention. Routine demographic and outcome variables were obtained and bivariate and multivariate regression statistics were performed using Stata V.10.

Results

A total of 138 patients were included in the study. Age (39.3 vs 41.4, p=0.51), mean injury severity score (26.7 vs 22.1, p=0.12), and admission Hb (11.9 vs 12.8, p=0.06) did not differ significantly between the two groups. The number of Hb draws (9.2 vs 10, p=0.69) and the associated change in Hb (3.7 vs 3.5, p=0.71) did not differ significantly between the two groups. Only splenic grade predicted need for urgent intervention (3.5 vs 2, p<0.001). All patients who required an operative or radiologic intervention did so based on change in hemodynamics or severity of splenic grade, per our institutional protocol, and not Hb trend.

Discussion

Among patients with blunt solid organ injury, a need for emergent intervention in the form of laparotomy or angioembolization occurs within the first hours of injury. Routine scheduled Hb measurements did not change management in our cohort.

Level of evidence

Level III.

Alternative clinical trial designs

High-quality clinical trials are needed to advance the care of injured patients. Traditional randomized clinical trials in trauma have challenges in generating new knowledge due to many issues, including logistical difficulties performing individual randomization, unclear pretrial estimates of treatment effect leading to often unpowered studies, and difficulty assessing the generalizability of an intervention given the heterogeneity of both patients and trauma centers. In this review, we discuss alternative clinical trial designs that can address some of these difficulties. These include pragmatic trials, cluster randomization, cluster randomized stepped wedge designs, factorial trials, and adaptive designs. Additionally, we discuss how Bayesian methods of inference may provide more knowledge to trauma and acute care surgeons compared with traditional, frequentist methods.

The role of grade of injury in non-operative management of blunt hepatic and splenic trauma: Case series from a multicenter experience

This retrospective study shows the results of a 2 years application of a clinical pathway concerning the indications to NOM based on the patient's hemodynamic answer instead of on the injury grade of the lesions.We conducted a retrospective study applied on a patient's cohort, admitted in "Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Ospedali Riuniti of Ancona" and in the Digestive and Emergency Surgery Department of the Santa Maria of Terni hospital between September 2015 and December 2017, all affected by blunt abdominal trauma, involving liver, spleen or both of them managed conservatively. Patients were divided into 3 main groups according to their hemodynamic response to a fluid administration: stable (group A), transient responder (group B) and unstable (group C). Management of patients was performed according to specific institutional pathway, and only patients from category A and B were treated conservatively regardless of the injury grade of lesions.From October 2015 to December 2017, a total amount of 111 trauma patients were treated with NOM. Each patient underwent CT scan at his admission. No contrast pooling was found in 50 pts. (45.04%). Contrast pooling was found in 61 patients (54.95%). The NOM overall outcome resulted in success in 107 patients (96.4%). NOM was successful in 100% of cases of liver trauma patients and was successful in 94.7% of splenic trauma patients (72/76). NOM failure occurred in 4 patients (5.3%) treated for spleen injuries. All these patients received splenectomy: in 1 case to treat pseudoaneurysm, (AAST, American Association for the Surgery of Trauma, grade of injury II), in 2 cases because of re-bleeding (AAST grade of injury IV) and in the remaining case was necessary to stop monitoring spleen because the patient should undergo to orthopedic procedure to treat pelvis fracture (AAST grade of injury II).Non-operative management for blunt hepatic and splenic lesions in stable or stabilizable patients seems to be the choice of treatment regardless of the grade of lesions according to the AAST Organ Injury Scale.

Predictors of splenic artery embolization as an adjunct to non-operative management of stable blunt splenic injury: a multi-institutional study

Background

We sought to identify predictors of splenic artery embolization (SAE) over observation for hemodynamically stable patients with blunt splenic injury (BSI), by Organ Injury Scale (OIS) grade.

Methods

This was a multi-institutional retrospective study of all adults (≥18) with BSI who were initially managed non-operatively between 2014 and 2016. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify predictors of SAE by OIS grade. Covariates included radiographic characteristics (presence/quantity of hemoperitoneum, blush, vascular injury), demographics (age, sex, cause), Injury Severity Score, vital signs, and hemoglobin values. We also examined outcomes of death, length of stay (LOS), intensive care unit (ICU) admission, blood products, and failed non-operative management (NOM).

Results

Among 422 patients with stable BSI, 93 (22%) had SAE and 329 (78%) were observed. The rate of SAE increased by grade (p<0.001). In grade I and II BSI, 7% had SAE; significant predictors of SAE were blush (OR: 5.9, p=0.02), moderate or large hemoperitoneum (OR: 3.0, p=0.01), and male sex (OR: 6.3, p=0.05). In grade III BSI, 26% had SAE; significant predictors included moderate or large hemoperitoneum (OR: 3.9, p=0.04), motor vehicle crash (OR: 6.1, p=0.005), and age (OR=1.4, 40% with each decade increase in age, p=0.02). The rate of SAE was 52% for grade IV and 85% for grade V BSI; there were no independent predictors of SAE in either grade. Clinical outcomes were comparable by NOM strategy and grade, except longer LOS with SAE in grades I–III (p<0.05) and longer ICU LOS with SAE in grades I–IV (p<0.05). Only 5 (1.2%) patients failed NOM (4 observation, 1 SAE).

Conclusion

These results strongly support SAE consideration for patients with stable grade IV and V BSI even if there are no other high-risk clinical or radiographic findings. For grades I–III, the identified predictors may help refine consideration for SAE.

Level of evidence

Level III, retrospective epidemiological study.

Splenic Injury with Subsequent Pleural Effusion: An Underreported Complication of Colonoscopy

Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. As such, there are recognized guidelines in the screening of this preventable cancer. There are differences in opinion regarding screening recommendations between the European and United States Cancer Prevention Societies. Screening colonoscopy is an option for routine screening for colorectal cancer in asymptomatic adults. It is a day procedure that is conducted both in hospital and specialized outpatient endoscopy suites. Serious harm is in the region of 3 per 1,000 examinations [Am J Gastroenterol. 2016 Aug; 111(8): 1092–101]. Splenic injury is a rare complication of colonoscopy whose frequency is unclear. Conservative management of splenic injury is desirable in order to preserve immunocompetence. We present a case in which a previously healthy 59-year-old female developed a splenic injury and later pleural effusion after screening colonoscopy.

Comparison of outcomes before and after establishing a regional trauma center and following a protocol to treat blunt splenic injury in South Korea: A retrospective study

Background:

Nonoperative management for hemodynamically stable splenic injury has been accepted as appropriate treatment. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the changes in management and clinical outcomes of splenic injury by introducing a protocol for splenic injury at a newly established regional trauma center.

Methods:

From January 2005 to December 2016, we reviewed the outcomes of all 257 patients who sustained blunt trauma to the spleen at the first regional trauma center in South Korea. This 11-year period was divided into two intervals, before 1 January 2014 (period I, n = 189 patients) and after 1 January 2014 (period II, n = 68 patients), when the trauma center was established and a formal management protocol was followed for patients with blunt traumatic splenic injuries.

Results:

The proportion of emergency operations performed for patients with more serious (grades 3–5) splenic injuries was lower in period II than in period I (29% vs 22%, respectively, p < 0.001) whereas the rate of angioembolization was higher (89% vs 39.0%, respectively, p < 0.001). The time to intervention, irrespective of whether emergency operation or angioembolization was performed, was shorter in period II than in period I (312.8 min vs 129 min, respectively, p = 0.001). A greater proportion of patients was managed non-operatively in period II (78% vs 71%), and the non-operative management success rate was higher in period II than it was in period I (100% vs 83%; p = 0.014). Similarly, the splenic salvage rate was higher in period II (78% vs 59%, p = 0.03).

Conclusion:

After establishing a regional trauma center and introducing a protocol for the management of blunt splenic injuries, the rates of non-operative management and splenic salvage improved significantly. The reasons for this may be multifactorial, being related to the early involvement of a trauma surgeon, expansion of angiographic facilities and resources, and the introduction and application of a protocol for managing blunt splenic injury.

After the embo: predicting non-hemorrhagic indications for splenectomy after angioembolization in patients with blunt trauma

Background

Successful non-operative management (NOM) of blunt splenic trauma is enhanced with splenic angioembolization (SAE). Patients may still require splenectomy post-SAE for splenic infarction/necrosis. Prior studies have used white blood cell count (WBC), platelet count (PLT), and PLT:WBC ratio after splenectomy to predict complications, but none have evaluated these findings prior to splenectomy in patients who have undergone SAE. Changes in these values may indicate clinically significant splenic infarction, facilitating management of these patients.

Methods

Patients admitted to an American College of Surgeons verified level 1 trauma center from January 2007 to August 2017 who underwent SAE were identified. Patients with successful NOM after SAE (SAE/NOM) were compared with those requiring splenectomy (SAE/SPLEN). Data included demographics, splenic injury grade, Injury Severity Score (ISS), time to SAE and splenectomy, intensive care unit and hospital length of stay (LOS), and complete blood count. Lab values were analyzed immediately post-SAE (time 1) and day 5 post-SAE (or day of discharge) for SAE/NOM patients and day of SPLEN for SAE/SPLEN patients (time 2). Data were analyzed using Mann-Whitney U, χ² tests, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves with significance attributed to P<0.05.

Results

Of 124 patients undergoing SAE, 16 (13%) later required SPLEN for infarction/necrosis at a median of 5 days post-SAE (IQR: 3–10 days). SAE/SPLEN and SAE/NOM patients did not differ by age, gender, ISS, or grade of splenic injury. SAE/SPLEN patients had longer hospital LOS (23 vs. 10 days, P<0.001). WBC, PLT, and PLT:WBC ratio did not differ between the groups at time 1. At time 2, WBC was higher and PLT:WBC ratio was lower in SAE/SPLEN patients. Using ROC curves at time 2, the area under the curve was 0.90 (P<0.001) for WBC and 0.71 (P<0.007) for PLT:WBC ratio.

Discussion

Patients requiring splenectomy for clinically significant infarction/necrosis after SAE develop leukocytosis and decreased PLT:WBC ratio when compared with SAE/NOM patients. Monitoring these parameters allows more prompt diagnosis and operative intervention.

Level of evidence

Therapeutic/care management, level III.