The effect of splenopneumopexy on hyperaldosteronism caused by constriction of the thoracic inferior vena cava was studied. In the experiments, the double isotope dilution derivative method of Brodie et al. (1967) have been used and found to be an adequate and reliable method for the study of aldosterone in peripheral plasma. Hyperaldosteronism following thoracic inferior vena caval constriction was significantly relieved by a portopulmonary shunt. Ascites was well controlled. Improvement of systemic and hepatic hemodynamics which allow aldosterone metabolism to proceed seems the most likely mechanism.
Our data support the clinical impression that splenopneumopexy is an effective procedure to control the ascites associated with portal hypertension, especially in the Budd-Chiari syndrome.