Table 2.

Predisposing factors for the development of splenic injuries during ERCP

Decreased movement between spleen and adjacent organs – Chronic pancreatitis – Adhesions from prior abdominal surgery – Smaller abdominal cavities Excessive traction on attaching ligaments – Prolonged procedure – Altered anatomy (e.g., previous gastrectomy) – Obstructing tumour (e.g., pancreatic head tumour) – Stomach overinflation – Large patient body habitus Direct trauma to spleen by duodenoscope Liver cirrhosis Splenomegaly Post-ERCP pancreatitis

ERCP, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography.