Case Report: Occult splenic rupture during left-sided VATS decortication: diagnostic role of early perioperative FAST - Scorecard - MDSpire

Case Study: Hidden Splenic Rupture Identified During Left-Sided VATS Decortication: The Importance of Early Perioperative FAST Diagnostics

  • By

  • Jinming Yao

  • Yan Xin

  • Xianzhen Liu

  • July 20, 2026

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Clinical Scorecard: Case Study: Hidden Splenic Rupture Identified During Left-Sided VATS Decortication: The Importance of Early Perioperative FAST Diagnostics

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionSplenic Rupture during VATS
Key MechanismsInadvertent injury to the spleen and its vasculature during thoracoscopic procedures.
Target PopulationPatients undergoing Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery (VATS) for thoracic diseases.
Care SettingIntraoperative and postoperative care in surgical settings.

Key Highlights

  • VATS offers advantages such as minimal trauma and reduced postoperative pain.
  • Splenic rupture is a rare but life-threatening complication of VATS.
  • Early bedside FAST diagnostics are crucial in identifying complications like splenic rupture.
  • The case involved a 69-year-old male with hemodynamic instability during VATS.
  • The patient achieved full recovery after prompt management of the splenic rupture.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Perform FAST ultrasound early when hemodynamic instability occurs during VATS.

Management

  • Prompt surgical intervention is necessary for identified splenic rupture.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Continuous monitoring of hemodynamic status during and after VATS.

Risks

  • Risk of splenic injury during left-sided thoracoscopic procedures.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Elderly patients or those with compromised cardiopulmonary function.

Management of comorbid conditions is essential prior to surgery.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Utilize ultrasound guidance for invasive procedures to minimize complications.
  • Ensure thorough preoperative assessment of comorbidities.
  • Implement early intervention protocols for intraoperative complications.

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