Visualization of Distal Splenorenal Shunt by Isotopic Splenovenography

Radioisotopic angiography of the splenic vein was performed in six patients following a distal splenorenal shunt (Warren procedure). Under echographic guidance, the spleen was punctured with a 22-gauge needle, and Tc-99m pertechnetate was injected into the splenic pulp. In five patients whose esophageal varices had remained atrophic, the splenic vein, the left renal vein, the inferior vena cava, and the heart were clearly visualized within 8 seconds. In one patient, in whom recurrence of esophageal varices had been recognized, the splenic vein was not imaged. The injected material coursed mainly upwards through collaterals.