Work

Omental splenosis causing small bowel obstruction in a pediatric patient: A case report

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Splenosis, the autotransplantation of splenic tissue post-trauma/splenectomy, is typically benign and asymptomatic. We report the first reported case of omental splenosis in a pediatric patient causing bowel obstruction via adhesions/internal herniation, highlighting diagnostic challenges. CASE PRESENTATION: A 10-year-old post-splenectomy male presented with bowel obstruction. Laparotomy revealed omental splenosis causing adhesional herniation. Histopathology confirmed diagnosis after therapeutic omentectomy/adhesiolysis with full recovery. DISCUSSION: While splenosis is usually incidental, our case demonstrates its potential for severe complications. Acute presentations may require surgery before definitive imaging, emphasizing the need for clinical suspicion in post-splenectomy patients. CONCLUSION: This rare pediatric case illustrates splenosis' potential to cause life-threatening obstruction. Surgeons should consider splenosis in post-splenectomy abdominal emergencies, even when imaging is nonspecific.

Source: International Journal of Surgery Case Reports

DOI: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2025.111849

Authors: Mohammad Al-Jawad, Hamza Boushi, Alamira Dana Dahhan, Mousa Sifat, Maya Shahoud, Ahmad Ghazal

Institution: University of Aleppo

Language: English

Topic: Abdominal Trauma and Injuries

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,090