Evaluation of the effect of partial splenic embolization on platelet values for liver cirrhosis patients with thrombocytopenia

Chi-Ming Lee, Ting-Kai Leung, Hung Jung Wang, Wei Hsing Lee, Li Kuo Shen, Jean-Dean Liu, Chun Chao Chang, Ya Yen Chen

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57 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Aim: To investigate the effect of partial splenic embolization (PSE) on platelet values in liver cirrhosis patients with thrombocytopenia and to determine the effective embolization area for platelet values improvement. Methods: Blood parameters and liver function indicators were measured on 10 liver cirrhosis patients (6 in Child-Pugh grade A and 4 in grade B) with thrombocytopenia (platelet values <80 × 103/ μL) before embolization. Computed tomography scan was also needed in advance to acquire the splenic baseline. After 2 to 3 d, angiography and splenic embolization were performed. A second computed tomography scan was made to confirm the embolization area after 2 to 3 wk of embolization. The blood parameters of patients were also examined biweekly during the 1 year follow-up period. Results: According to the computed tomography images after partial splenic embolization, we divided all patients into two groups: low (<30%), and high (≥ 30%) embolization area groups. The platelet values were increased by 3 times compared to baseline levels after 2 wk of embolization in high embolization area group. In addition, there were significant differences in platelet values between low and high embolization area groups. GPT values decreased significantly in all patients after 2 wk of embolization. The improvement in platelet and GPT values still persisted until 1 year after PSE. In addition, 3 of 4 (75%) Child-Pugh grade B patients progressed to grade A after 2 mo of PSE. The complication rate in <30% and ≥ 30% embolization area groups was 50% and 100%, respectively. Conclusion: Partial splenic embolization is an effective method to improve platelet values and GPT values in liver cirrhosis patients with thrombocytopenia and the ≥ 30% embolization area is meaningful for platelet values improvement. The relationship between the complication rate and embolization area needs further studies.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)619-622
Number of pages4
JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology
Volume13
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jan 28 2007

Keywords

  • Liver cirrhosi
  • Partial splenic embolization
  • Thrombocytopenia

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Gastroenterology

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