Splenic vein turndown repair in superior mesenteric vein trauma: A reasonable alternative

Objective: To determine previous experience and results of autologous splenic vein graft repairs in traumatic superior mesenteric vein (SMV) avulsions. Design of Study: Systemic review was conducted for SMV trauma and methods of repair between 1897 and 2010. Articles were further analyzed for use of the splenic vein as an alternative conduit and were included in this study. Results: Of the 56 articles identified during our search, 4 included use of the splenic vein as an autologous vein graft. A total of 5 cases using the splenic vein turndown repair were identified in addition to our case. Of the 6 patients, 4 survived. Only one other case exists regarding the successful use of the splenic vein turndown technique in blunt abdominal trauma. Conclusion: There is little information regarding the feasibility and success of this technique in traumatic SMV disruption. Future studies are required to assess its role in abdominal vascular trauma.