"In haemodynamically unstable patients, ultrasound is often the first-line imaging technique if immediately available (i.e. POCUS) to identify free fluid (as an indication for laparotomy) 6,8. It also has the advantage of being non-invasive and there is no exposure to ionising radiation 2,6. If haemodynamically stable, colour Doppler can be used to assess for a splenic artery aneurysm but artifact from bowel gas, small aneurysm size, and gravid uterus are limitations 6,7."
Expected headings
"Associations"
"Treatment"
"Prognosis"
"Patients with splenic artery aneurysm rupture typically present with sudden upper abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, and often hypovolaemic shock 1,3,6,7. Most patients present in the third trimester 8."