Splenic artery aneurysms in portal hypertension.

In a group of 170 cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension an 8.8% incidence of splenic artery aneurysm was found. These patients have been analysed. Attention was focused on the possible pathogenic mechanisms. On the basis of our experience, ligature and resection is considered the best treatment for large aneurysms. In nine patients a small sized aneurysm was left in situ in order to avoid splenectomy; none of these patients developed aneurysm rupture during a follow-up period from 6 to 48 months.