Some patients develop deep vein thrombosis after splenectomy. The presence of several factors may increase the risk.
The portal vein is a common site for thrombosis but other veins may be affected. Patients may be at increased risk for pulmonary embolism and stroke.
Risk factors for postsplenectomy thrombosis:
(1) splenomegaly (Stamou et al reported risk when spleen > 650 grams)
(2) thrombocytosis after surgery
(3) hemolytic anemia
(4) thrombophilia disorder
(5) possibly female gender
To read more or access our algorithms and calculators, please log in or register.
Specialty: Hematology Oncology
