Aneurysm of the splenic artery.

Aneurysm of the splenic artery is found in up to 10% of the elderly. Usually, the lesion is discovered by change and does not produce symptoms unless rupture occurs. Although there is general agreement that surgery is required in symptomatic patients and in women of childbearing age, controversy persists as to management for the asymptomatic patient. Since rupture is uncommon, and surgical mortality low, those patients over the age of 60 can be followed up, and not operated on because of the diagnosis alone.