Microwave ablation in the spleen versus partial splenic artery embolisation: a new technique for hypersplenism in cirrhosis

ABSTRACT

Background and study aims: Splenectomy has been associated with high perioperative morbidity and mortality. Partial splenic artery embolisation [PSE] was found to be an effective and safer method but with numerous complications. Local thermal ablative techniques such as microwave ablation [MWA] have been tried and were found to be safe and effective alternatives. This randomised controlled study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of MWA versus PSE in the treatment of hypersplenism in patients with post-hepatitis C cirrhosis