Mobility of the spleen in the absence of some or all of these ligaments is then determined by the length of its vascular pedicle. Chronic or recurrent torsion causes venous congestion and splenomegaly. Sixty percent have a mass and pain. When torsion develops, it is usually clockwise. This is related to the speed and degree of torsion.
Intermittent torsion causes venous congestion and splenomegaly.
Given the rarity of wandering spleen and its nonspecific symptoms, early diagnosis is difficult. The diagnosis of wandering spleen can be confirmed radiographically, but there is still debate concerning which test is most appropriate. Plain abdominal films may reveal a central abdominal mass with loops of bowel in the left upper quadrant. Barium enema may show a mass with medial and anterior displacement of the splenic flexure. Upper gastrointestinal tract studies may show an empty splenic fossa with a malpositioned stomach.