To describe a case of delayed splenic rupture (DSR) following video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) and review existing literature on this complication.
Approach:
Key Findings:
DSR can occur after VATS, particularly following left-sided thoracic surgery.
Symptoms may include hypotension and tachycardia without overt abdominal signs.
Intraoperative transdiaphragmatic injury and postoperative diaphragmatic traction are major etiologies.
Contrast-enhanced CT is the diagnostic gold standard, while bedside US and DPP enable prompt diagnosis.
Interpretation:
Limitations:
Limited number of reported cases makes it difficult to establish incidence rates.
The prolonged latent period of DSR complicates early diagnosis.
