Splenic artery aneurysms during pregnancy: An obstetric nightmare.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE\nIn this study we report our experience in the management of Splenic Artery Aneurysm (SAA), diagnosed during pregnancy.\n\n\nSTUDY DESIGN\nThe current manuscript describes three different events, treated in out our department, involving SAAs diagnosed during pregnancy. Each case presents an unusual course and a unique clinical challenge.\n\n\nRESULTS\nThe first case is of a 25 week s gestation twin pregnancy with ruptured SAA ending in maternal and fetal death. Another case of SAA rupture presented at 27 week s gestation with consequent emergency cesarean section and splenectomy. In the last case, two SAAs were incidentally diagnosed at 25 weeks singleton gestation. The patient was managed conservatively and delivered by an elective cesarean section at 34 weeks followed by postpartum angiographic embolization of the aneurysms.\n\n\nCONCLUSIONS\nHealth care providers and especially obstetricians should be aware of the diagnosis of ruptured SAA in a pregnant woman with abdominal discomfort and hemodynamic deterioration. In addition, once an asymptomatic pregnant patient is diagnosed with a SAA, conservative surveillance may be allowed.