Vanishing spleen after Nissen fundoplication: a case report.

K.P. Dijkman*, L.W. van Heurn, P.L. Leroy, G.D. Vos

*Corresponding author for this work

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

    Abstract

    Nissen fundoplication is a generally accepted treatment for severe gastro-oesophageal reflux after conservative management has failed. The surgical techniques and the complications that may develop following the operation have been well described. However, necrosis of the spleen is a rare complication. We report here a patient with Down syndrome with a vanishing spleen after a Nissen fundoplication, who died of overwhelming pneumococcal septic shock 7 months after the operation. Vascular anomaly in Down syndrome, inadvertent ligation of the splenic artery or volvulus of the spleen may have caused a compromised splenic arterial circulation.Conclusion Nissen fundoplication may be associated with vanishing spleen and, consequently, with devastating consequences.
    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)355-357
    JournalEuropean Journal of Pediatrics
    Volume168
    Issue number3
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2009

    Fingerprint

    Dive into the research topics of 'Vanishing spleen after Nissen fundoplication: a case report.'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

    Cite this