Published online Jun 16, 2021. doi: 10.4253/wjge.v13.i6.184
Peer-review started: January 18, 2021
First decision: May 5, 2021
Revised: May 17, 2021
Accepted: May 25, 2021
Article in press: May 25, 2021
Published online: June 16, 2021
Processing time: 143 Days and 8.1 Hours
The occurrence of splenic rupture is extremely rare during an upper gastro-intestinal endoscopy. Although infrequent, splenic rupture is a known complication secondary to colonoscopy. However, occurrence of splenic rupture after peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has never been reported to date.
We describe a case of a splenic rupture following a POEM for recurrent achalasia in a patient who previously had a Heller myotomy. Splenic rupture remains very uncommon after an upper gastro-intestinal endoscopic procedure. The most plausible cause for this rare splenic injury appears to be the stretching of the gastro-splenic ligament during the endoscopy. A previous surgery may be a risk factor contributing to this complication.
The possibility for the occurrence of specific complications, such as splenic rupture, does exist even with the development of advanced endoscopic procedures, as presented in the present case after POEM.
Core Tip: Splenic rupture is extremely rare but may occur during an upper gastro-intestinal endoscopy. Occurrence of splenic rupture after peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has never been reported to date. The first reported case of splenic rupture following a POEM is presented. This very unusual but severe complication will probably occur again as this procedure will continue to be developed and implemented. Physicians must be aware that splenic rupture can happen after POEM.