J Korean Assoc Pediatr Surg.  2008 Dec;14(2):183-188.

Splenic Infarction due to Torsion of Wandering Spleen: A Case Report

• Kim H
• Choe BH
• Park J

Abstract

Wandering spleen is very rare condition in children characterized by migration of the spleen from its normal position due to laxity or absence of the supporting splenic ligaments. We experienced a case of splenic infarction due to torsion of a wandering spleen in a 6-year-old boy who presented with fever, vomiting, and abdominal pain of 2 day's duration. On physical examination, there was severe tenderness in the left upper quadrant of the abdomen. The plain abdominal radiograph showed marked colonic gaseous distension. Contrast-enhanced abdominal computed tomography scan showed decreased density of spleen in the normal position, consistent with infarction. At emergency laparotomy, a wandering spleen twisted 360degrees on its pedicle was found. Despite splenic detorsion, blood flow could not be restored. Splenectomy was therefore performed. The child was discharged 7 days after surgery without any complications.

Keyword

Wandering spleen; Splenic torsion; Child

MeSH Terms

Abdomen
Abdominal Pain
Child
Colon
Emergencies
Fever
Humans
Infarction
Laparotomy
Ligaments
Physical Examination
Spleen
Splenectomy
Splenic Infarction
Vomiting
Wandering Spleen