Splenic injury. An assessment of splenic conservation.

Splenic salvage has been undertaken increasingly in the past decade. The optimal method is not determined in adults. Sixty-seven consecutive cases of splenic injury were reviewed during a time of change in management policy. Splenic salvage rose from 10% of cases in 1980-83 to 57% in 1984-88. Treatment by observation resulted in 46% of patients undergoing delayed laparotomy. Injury to other intra-abdominal organs required laparotomy in 23% of patients with multiple injuries. Operative splenic salvage in the adult is feasible and may result in a higher rate of splenic salvage.