Stepwise partial splenic embolization for portal hypertension based on a new concept: Splanchnic caput Medusae

Management of splenomegaly with thrombocytopenia is important in the treatment of portal hypertension. We propose a new concept: “Splanchnic Caput Medusae” in which enlarged spleen is her face and portal collateral pathways are her snake hairs. We report 2 demonstrable cases who were treated based on this new concept. Case 1 with refractory esophageal varices and splenomegaly was treated by stepwise partial splenic embolization (PSE) and endoscopic injection sclerotherapy with ligation. Spleen/liver volume ratio changed from 0.33 to 0.10. Hepatic venous pressure gradient changed from 19 to 14 mmHg. Case 2 with mesenteric shunt and splenomegaly was treated by stepwise PSE and retrograde obliteration. Spleen/liver volume ratio changed from 0.70 to 0.05. Hepatic venous pressure gradient changed from 11 to 7 mmHg. In these 2 cases, 3D-CT reconstruction images after treatment revealed that spleen- portal system reversed almost to normal form. We conclude that splenomegaly and portal collateral pathways could be considered as “Splanchnic Caput Medusae” and have to be treated by stepwise PSE.