Partial splenic embolization of patients with hypersplenism by transradial or transfemoral approach: a prospective randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Background Partial splenic artery embolization (PSE) is an effective treatment modality for patients with hypersplenism. It is less invasive and has a quicker recovery compared with surgical procedures. PSE is usually performed using a femoral artery approach that requires bedrest for a few hours, which is rarely the case for transradial PSE. Purpose To compare the transradial and transfemoral approaches for embolization of spleen in patients with hypersplenism. Material and Methods In all, 84 patients with hypersplenism who required PSE were recruited. They were randomly divided into two groups on the basis of the procedure followed: the transradial approach (R-PSE, n = 39) or transfemoral approach (F-PSE, n = 45). Technical success, puncture rate, total procedure time, X-ray exposure time, length of stay in hospital (LOS), and complications of the two groups were recorded. Results The procedure time, X-ray exposure time, and LOS were found to be lower in the R-PSE group than in the F-PSE. However, this difference was not statistically significant. Conclusion The transradial artery approach for PSE in patients with hypersplenism is feasible with no major complications as compared to the femoral approach.