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

To highlight the occurrence of splenic rupture during Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery (VATS) for empyema clearance and the importance of early perioperative FAST diagnostics in such cases.

Approach:
  • Case Presentation: A 69-year-old male patient with a history of hypertension and diabetes underwent VATS for left-sided empyema clearance. He developed hemodynamic instability during the procedure. Intraoperative exploration did not reveal a bleeding source, but post-procedural FAST confirmed splenic rupture, which was managed promptly.
Key Findings:
  • Splenic rupture is a rare but life-threatening complication of VATS, particularly in patients with complex medical histories.
  • Early post-procedural FAST can effectively identify hidden splenic injuries, potentially improving patient outcomes.
Interpretation:

The case emphasizes the necessity of performing FAST diagnostics early when patients exhibit refractory shock during VATS.

Limitations:
  • The study is based on a single case report, which may limit the applicability of the findings to broader patient populations.
Conclusion:

Prompt identification and management of splenic rupture can lead to full recovery, as demonstrated in this case.

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