Splenic Torsion

Associated Terms:

Twisted Spleen

The term "ACVS Diplomate" refers to a veterinarian who has been board certified in veterinary surgery. Only veterinarians who have successfully completed the certification requirements of the ACVS are Diplomates of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons and have earned the right to be called specialists in veterinary surgery.

Your ACVS board-certified veterinary surgeon completed a three-year residency program, met specific training and caseload requirements, performed research and had research published. This process was supervised by ACVS Diplomates, ensuring consistency in training and adherence to high standards. After completing the residency program, the individual passed a rigorous examination. Only then did your veterinary surgeon earn the title of ACVS Diplomate.

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Overview:

Splenic torsion occurs when the blood supply to the spleen twists on itself (Figure 1). This prevents blood drainage, causing subsequent enlargement of the spleen. It occurs most often with gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV). but can also occur in isolation. Large and giant breed dogs with a deep-chested conformation (e.g., Great Danes and German Shepherds) are most commonly affected.

Signs and Symptoms:

Splenic torsion can be an acute (sudden) condition with signs of pain and collapse or it may be more chronic and your pet may experience non-specific signs such as:

intermittent abdominal pain
vomiting
inappetence
abdominal distension
weight loss
excessive drinking and urination

Diagnostics:

Abdominal radiographs and ultrasound are useful in confirming the diagnosis of splenic torsion. Other tests that may be required include blood work and urine analysis. In certain cases, an exploratory surgery may be required to obtain definitive diagnosis.

Treatment:

Your pet will be stabilized prior to surgery with fluid therapy and blood products if necessary. Surgical removal of the spleen (splenectomy) is the most commonly performed procedure to correct the torsion. Other treatments may be necessary at the discretion of the doctor before and after surgery. (Figure 1).

Aftercare and Outcome:

Your dog will need restricted activity for two weeks following surgery. Your dog may need to wear an E-collar or t-shirt to prevent self-trauma to the surgical site. Complications from surgery may include cardiac arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms), ongoing bleeding, pancreatitis, and infection. Overall the prognosis is good with a normal quality of life expected following full recovery.

Content Theme:

Animal Owners

Also known as:

Splenic Torsion

Twisted Spleen

This Animal Health Topic was written by and reviewed by Diplomates of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons. Any opinions stated in this article are not necessarily the official position of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons.

The American College of Veterinary Surgeons recommends contacting an ACVS board-certified veterinary surgeon or your general veterinarian for more information about this topic.

To find an ACVS Diplomate, visit www.acvs.org/find-a-surgeon.

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