Splenic-Vein Thrombosis Following Transthoracic Gastrectomy and Incidental Splenectomy

Abstract

ALTHOUGH thrombosis of the splenic vein is infrequently reported in the literature,^{1 , 2} it is common knowledge among surgeons that this condition may follow splenectomy. In fact, local thrombosis at the site of ligation of the splenic artery and vein with extension back to the first branching vessel is to be expected. This degree of involvement of the splenic vein, however, should be symptomless, but it is potentially important because of possible extension into the portal venous system and as a source of emboli to the liver. Since splenectomy is usually performed for definite diseases of the spleen such as trauma, . . .