Splenic torsion in a patient with paraplegia: considerations for evaluation and management

BMJ Case Rep. 2024 Dec 4;17(12):e263013. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2024-263013.

Abstract

Splenic torsion is a rare phenomenon characterised by a twisting of the spleen along its vascular pedicle, typically in the setting of lax suspensory ligaments. It is more commonly encountered in the paediatric population; however, it also has been documented in the adult population. Management is not well described due to its rarity. We illustrate a case of a paraplegic male in his 50s who presented with progressive abdominal pain and was found to have splenic torsion with suspected infarction on imaging. This was managed successfully with splenectomy.

Keywords: Anatomic Variation; General surgery; Medical education; Radiology; Splenectomy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Abdominal Pain / etiology
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Paraplegia* / etiology
  • Spleen / diagnostic imaging
  • Splenectomy* / methods
  • Splenic Diseases* / complications
  • Splenic Diseases* / diagnostic imaging
  • Splenic Diseases* / surgery
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Torsion Abnormality* / complications
  • Torsion Abnormality* / diagnosis
  • Torsion Abnormality* / diagnostic imaging
  • Torsion Abnormality* / surgery