Objective To discuss the clinical value of partial splenic embolization in the treatment of schistosomial hypersplenism. Methods Peripheral partial splenic embolization using gelatin sponge (gelfoam) was performed in 17 cases of schistosomial hypersplenism. Results The amount of devascularized parenchyma was 50%~75% (mean, 59%). Postoperative follow-up was conducted for 6~29 months (mean, 16.9 months) in all the 17 cases. The leucocyte count was elevated significantly on the latest follow-up (5.74?1.31?109/L), as compared with the preoperative value (2.19?0.73?109/L) (t=11.86,P=0.000). The platelet count was significantly higher on the latest follow-up (106.18?30.92 ?109/L) than before the embolization (31.29?14.09?109/L) (t=8.28,P=0.000). No severe complications were seen. Conclusions Partial splenic embolization in the treatment of schistosomial hypersplenism is safe and effective, but its long-term effects remain a question to be answered through further research.

Objective To evaluate the clinical application of partial splenic embolization in the treatment o hypersplenism caused by schistosomiasis. Methods Twenty four patients with hypersplenism caused by schistosomiasis were treated with peripheral partly splenic embolization with gelf.oam. The counts of white blood cell(WBC) and platelet (PLT) were compared between pre-and post-splenic embolization. Results The extent of splenic embolization were 50% - 75%(mean 59.24%) with post-therapeutic follow-up of 6 months ~ 2 years, showing significant increase of WBC count with preoperative, peak and the latest follow-up counts as (2.15?0.67)?109/L, (12.36?3.24)?109/L and (5.65?1.38)?109/L respectively(t = 11.08, P