Non-operative Treatment of Gastric Fistula after Splenectomy Combined with Pericardial Devascularisation in Portal Hypertension

Portal hypertension may gradually lead to esophagogastric varices and splenomegaly in the decompensated stage of liver cirrhosis, which requires surgical treatment, if the disease worsens. Splenectomy with pericardial devascularisation is the routine surgery. One complex complication after splenectomy is upper gastric fistula which can seriously affect the perioperative recovery. Here, we present a case of a 51-year female patient, who recovered completely from non-operative treatment for gastric fistula after splenectomy and pericardial devascularisation. The occurrence of gastric fistula may be strongly related to preoperative preparation, intra-operative procedure and postoperative management. Therefore, personalised management is important for avoiding gastric fistula. Key Words: Gastric fistula, Splenectomy, Pericardial devascularisation, Portal hypertension.