Open AccessMesenteric Thrombosis Following Splenectomy
Author(s) -
James Balz,
John P. Minton
Publication year - 1975
Publication title -
annals of surgery
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 4.153
H-Index - 309
eISSN - 1528-1140
pISSN - 0003-4932
DOI - 10.1097/00000658-197501000-00026
Subject(s) - medicine , thrombocytosis , splenectomy , thrombosis , platelet , dipyridamole , heparin , surgery , gastroenterology , spleen
Three cases of postsplenectomy mesenteric thrombosis, two associated with thrombocytosis, are presented. Experience has shown that persistent thrombocytosis, accompanied by abnormal platelet function, is not a benign condition and may be associated with thrombosis. When encountered, postsplenectomy thrombocytosis of greater than 800,000 per mm-3 must be evaluated by platelet function studies and anticoagulation begun. Post-prandial cramping abdominal pain may be an early symptom of thrombosis, demanding immediate anticoagulation. Low-dose heparin, ASA, and dipyridamole are three of the more commonly used treatment modalities. Small bowel resection is indicated if thrombosis occurs.