Experimental transcatheter splenectomy using absolute ethanol.

Since ethanol is known to be effective for transcatheter infarction of the kidney, the authors evaluated it as an agent for splenic ablation in swine and dogs. Infarction was successful in 7 of 9 pigs and 4 of 5 dogs. Controlled segmental infarction using flow-directed balloon catheters was attempted and was successful in 3 pigs and 2 dogs. The maximum blood ethanol level was 78 mg/100 ml, and by 15 minutes after injection it was less than or equal to 20 mg/100 ml. There was no evidence of pancreatic or hepatic injury at autopsy. The authors conclude that with careful catheter positioning, controlled total or partial infarction of the spleen can be safely performed with absolute ethanol without risk of abscess formation, pneumonia, or significant damage to other organs.