Splenic artery embolization using contour emboli before laparoscopic or laparoscopically assisted splenectomy

The present study assessed preoperative splenic artery embolization using spherical embolic material, super absorbent polymer microspheres (SAP-MS), before laparoscopic or laparoscopically assisted splenectomy. Distal splenic artery embolization using 250 to 400 microm SAP-MS was performed in nine cases with ITP and in seven cases with the other diseases with splenomegaly. Laparoscopic or laparoscopically assisted splenectomies, including a hand-assisted procedure and the procedure involving left upper minilaparotomy, were done 2 to 4 hours after embolization. Conversion to traditional laparotomy was not required in any of the 16 cases, while conversion to 12-cm laparotomy was required in one case with massive splenomegaly. Mean operating time was 161 minutes, and mean intraoperative blood loss was 290 mL. No major postoperative complications were identified, and only one patient reported postembolic pain before surgery. Preoperative splenic artery embolization using painless embolic material, SAP-MS, would be effective for easy and safe laparoscopic or laparoscopically assisted splenectomy.     

Comparative treatment and literature review for laparoscopic splenectomy alone versus preoperative splenic artery embolization splenectomy

Background

Although laparoscopic splenectomy has been gradually regarded as an acceptable therapeutic approach for patients with massive splenomegaly, intraoperative blood loss remains an important complication. In an effort to evaluate the most effective and safe treatment of splenomegaly, we compared three methods of surgery for treating splenomegaly, including open splenectomy, laparoscopic splenectomy, and a combination of preoperative splenic artery embolization plus laparoscopic splenectomy.

Methods

From January 2006 to August 2011, 79 patients underwent splenectomy in our hospital. Of them, 20 patients underwent a combined treatment of preoperative splenic artery embolization and laparoscopic splenectomy (group 1), 30 patients had laparoscopic splenectomy alone (group 2), and 29 patients underwent open splenectomy (group 3). Patients’ demographics, perioperative data, clinical outcome, and hematological changes were analyzed.

Results

Preoperative splenic artery embolization plus laparoscopic splenectomy was successfully performed in all patients in group 1. One patient in group 2 required an intraoperative conversion to traditional open splenectomy because of severe blood loss. Compared with group 2, significantly shorter operating time, less intraoperative blood loss, and shorter postoperative hospital stay were noted in group 1. No marked significant differences in postoperative complications of either group were observed. Compared with group 3, group 1 had less intraoperative blood loss, shorter postoperative stay, and fewer complications. No significant differences were found in operating time. There was a marked increase in platelet count and white blood count in both groups during the follow-up period.

Conclusions

Preoperative splenic artery embolization with laparoscopic splenectomy reduced the operating time and decreased intraoperative blood loss when compared with laparoscopic splenectomy alone or open splenectomy. Splenic artery embolization is a useful intraoperative adjunctive procedure for patients with splenomegaly because of the benefit of perioperative outcomes.     

预结扎脾动脉腹腔镜巨脾切除术12例分析

目的:探讨预结扎脾动脉腹腔镜巨脾切除术的方法和疗效。方法:为12例巨脾伴脾功能亢进患者行腹腔镜脾切除术。术中预结扎脾动脉,超声刀解剖脾周韧带,Endo-GIA离断脾蒂。结果:12例患者均顺利完成手术,无中转开腹及并发症发生。术后血小板、白细胞均明显上升。结论:随着超声刀、Endo-GIA等先进器械的应用,预结扎脾动脉腹腔镜巨脾切除术已成为治疗巨脾、脾功能亢进的有效术式。     

Early ligation of the splenic artery in the leaning spleen approach to laparoscopic splenectomy

BACKGROUND: A variety of approaches have been proposed for laparoscopic splenectomy, including the anterior approach, the lateral approach (hanging spleen technique), and the semilateral approach (leaning spleen technique). We advocate a leaning spleen approach with early ligation of the splenic artery. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Since 1997, we have performed 120 laparoscopic splenectomies using the leaning spleen approach along with early ligation of the splenic artery. The patient is placed in a 70-degree semi-right lateral position. The operative steps are: exposure of the lesser sac, control of the splenic artery, mobilization of the splenic flexure, division of the splenocolic ligament, division of the splenophrenic ligament, hilar mobilization, mobilization of the upper pole of the spleen, and removal of the specimen. RESULTS: The most common indication for surgery was autoimmune hemolytic anemia (35.8%). One patient had severe perisplenitis with extensively vascularized adhesions, which led to oozing during surgery obscuring the laparoscopic view, requiring conversion to open surgery. The mean spleen diameter was 22.8 cm (range, 12.5-37.0 cm) on imaging. The mean operative time was 85 minutes (range, 54-124 minutes). Concomitant laparoscopic cholecystectomy for pigment stone cholelithiasis was performed in 8.3% of the patients. Accessory splenic tissue was found in 4.2%. The average hospital stay was 3 days (range, 1-6 days). There were no significant postoperative complications. The average follow-up has been 5.4 years (range, 1 month-9 years). CONCLUSION: In adopting the modification of early ligation of the splenic artery in the leaning spleen approach, we believe we have helped to advance laparoscopic splenectomy.     

The ascendance of laparoscopic splenectomy

The application of laparoscopic techniques for abdominal procedures has been achieved with varying success. The general acceptance of laparoscopic splenectomy (LS) may be hindered by its infrequent performance and difficulty in manipulating the spleen. A retrospective review of splenectomies performed for primary splenic pathology was done to assess the role and outcome of LS. One hundred fifty LSs were performed from July 1995 through September 1999. Over that time period the proportion of LS performed increased steadily from 17 to 75 per cent of all splenectomies. The primary indications for splenectomy included immune thrombocytopenic purpura in 75 (50%), lymphoma/leukemia 36 (24%), and splenomegaly 19 (13%). There were 86 females and 64 males. Immediately before operation 36 patients (4%) had a platelet count <50,000/ mL, and 24 patients (16%) a hemoglobin <10 mg per cent. The mean operative time was 161 minutes with an average blood loss of 138 cm3 (<50-800). The mean morcellated weight of the entire group was 411 g (33-3300) indicating generally large splenic size. In the 37 patients with splenomegaly the mean weight was 735 g (293-3300). There were two conversions to open splenectomy. Two patients with hematologic malignancy, splenomegaly, and cytopenias died from overwhelming post-splenectomy sepsis (1.3%). Morbidity occurred in 14 (9%) with the most common complication being pancreatitis in seven (5%). The median length of postoperative stay was 2.4 days (range 1-5). In summary LS has rapidly replaced the open approach for nearly all elective splenectomies in adults and children. When performed with the patient in the lateral position it can be accomplished with minimal morbidity, even in complex patients, including those with splenomegaly.     

Laparoscopic versus open pediatric splenectomy for massive splenomegaly

Laparoscopic splenectomy (LS) has rapidly evolved into the technique of choice compared with open splenectomy (OS) because of the advantages of the minimally invasive approach. Splenomegaly increases the technical difficulties of LS. LS for massive splenomegaly has generally been found to fail in adults and children. With improvements in laparoscopic technique and accumulation of laparoscopic experience, however, concerns about completing the procedure in pediatric cases with even massive splenomegaly have been lowered. A retrospective review (April 1997-October 2009) of databases at 2 institutions identified 145 children undergoing splenectomy, 79 laparoscopic and 66 open. We defined splenic margin below the umbilicus or anteriorly extending over the midline as massive splenomegaly. By this definition, 22 cases of pediatric laparoscopic and 17 cases of open splenectomies for massive splenomegaly were performed. Perioperative and follow-up data of laparoscopic pediatric splenectomies were compared with those of open splenectomies, including operative time, bleeding, spleen size, complications, and hospital stay. There were no deaths, wound infections, or instances of pancreatitis. No accessory spleen was missed by laparoscopic; accessory spleens were missed in 2 patients in open splenectomies. The complication rate of laparoscopic versus open was 13.6% versus 41.2%. No subsequent surgery was necessary for dealing with complications both in laparoscopic and open series. Laparoscopic pediatric splenectomy for massive splenomegaly is a feasible, effective, and safe procedure and is associated with low morbidity and a short hospital stay.     

Exposure of splenic hilum increases safety of laparoscopic splenectomy

Laparoscopic splenectomy is becoming the gold standard technique for the treatment of hematological disorders of the spleen. Hemostasis is a fundamental step during laparoscopic splenectomy leading some authors to develop several techniques to control splenic vessels such as hand assistance, preoperative splenic artery embolization, and the use of vascular linear staplers. However, intraoperative bleeding is usually due to inadequate exposure of the hilar splenic vessels itself. The authors describe a standardized technique for the exposure of splenic pedicle using an endoscopic triangular retractor. We have been used this technique in 16 consecutive laparoscopic splenectomies with minimal blood loss. The present technique may increase the safety of laparoscopic splenectomy with adequate exposure of the splenic hilum reducing the conversion rate and intraoperative blood loss.     

Laparoscopic splenectomy

Background: Laparoscopic splenectomy is currently the procedure of choice for elective splenectomy. This study reviews the initial 100 laparoscopic splenectomies completed at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation. Methods: A retrospective review of elective laparoscopic splenectomy was performed to assess clinical outcomes at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation. Patient demographics, preoperative diagnoses, operative characteristics, morbidity, and mortality were evaluated. Results: Of the 169 elective splenectomies completed over a 4-year period from 1995 to 1999, 100 were attempted laparoscopically. The proportions of all splenectomies attempted laparoscopically by year were 17%, 38%, 75%, and 72%. Nearly 70% of splenectomies were performed for idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura or malignancy. Overall, the mean blood loss was 181 ml, and the mean operative time was 170 min. Splenomegaly occurred in 31% of the patients and accounted for longer operative times. Three patients required conversion to an open procedure. Postoperative complications were seen in 13% of the patients. One patient died in the postoperative period from staphylococcal sepsis, giving a mortality rate of 1%. Conclusions: Laparoscopic splenectomy currently is the procedure of choice for elective splenectomy at our institution. As compared with traditional open splenectomy, laparoscopic splenectomy results in minimal morbidity even in the setting of splenomegaly.     

Laparoscopic subtotal splenectomy in hereditary spherocytosis

BACKGROUND: Clinical manifestations of hereditary spherocytosis can be controlled by splenectomy. The use of this procedure has been restricted due to concerns regarding exposure of patients to a lifelong risk of overwhelming infections. Subtotal splenectomy, which removes 85-90% of the enlarged spleen, is a logical alternative. In the first cases performed by laparoscopy we have chosen to preserve the upper pole. However, this technique showed some disadvantages, especially concerning the correct intraoperative evaluation of the splenic remnant volume. Therefore, we developed a new variant of the procedure by preserving the lower pole of the spleen. METHODS: Based on the authors' experience in laparoscopy (176 laparoscopic splenectomies), 10 laparoscopic subtotal splenectomies were performed in patients with hereditary microspherocytosis, preserving either the upper or the lower splenic pole. RESULTS: Patient age ranged between 5 and 35 years. The mean volume of the remnant spleen was 41.4 cm3. There were no complications, and no transfusions were needed. Follow-up for 1-30 months was available. CONCLUSIONS: Subtotal splenectomy appears to control hemolysis while maintaining splenic function. The laparoscopic approach is safe and effective and should be considered the procedure of choice in hereditary microspherocytosis. Laparoscopic subtotal splenectomy presents an advantage over open subtotal splenectomy, resulting in decreased blood loss, shorter hospital stay, no conversions, fewer operative and postoperative complications, and excellent remission rates. On the basis of our experience, the preservation of the lower pole of the spleen seems to be a first-line option for the optimal evaluation of the residual splenic mass.     

Splenic artery embolization before laparoscopic splenectomy

Background: This study assessed preoperative splenic artery embolization before laparoscopic splenectomy. Methods: Preoperative splenic artery embolization was used in 26 of 54 patients (48%) undergoing laparoscopic splenectomy. Between 1992 and 1994, this procedure was used in all patients with spleens shorter than 20 cm (group I), except the first two (18/20). An anterior surgical approach was used. After 1994 (group II), embolization was not used for these patients (0/26), and a lateral surgical approach was used. Throughout the study period, all patients with spleens longer than 20 cm had embolization (8/8). Results: Five complications occurred, three related to the use of small-particle embolic material (microspheres, gelatin foam powder). In group I, the conversion rate was lower than that of most current series, largely because of embolization. In group II, similar results were obtained because of experience and a better surgical approach (i.e., lateral). Conclusions: Preoperative splenic artery embolization is not necessary for spleens shorter than 20 cm. Increased experience and mostly the lateral surgical approach have permitted a shorter operation and a low conversion rate (4%) similar to the rate achieved with embolization and the anterior approach in the initial stages of the study. Embolization is used for 20- to 30-cm spleens. The conversion rate is higher (17%), and blood replacement is required frequently (83%). Despite embolization, laparoscopic splenectomy for spleens longer than 30 cm is futile at this time (100% conversion).     

Laparoscopically assisted splenectomy following preoperative splenic artery embolization using contour emboli for myelofibrosis with massive splenomegaly

Laparoscopically assisted splenectomy with an 8- to 10-cm left upper paramedian laparotomy was performed following preoperative splenic artery embolization using painless contour emboli (super absorbent polymer microsphere) with early successful results in two men (46 and 37 years old) with myelofibrosis accompanied by massive splenomegaly. Dissection around the lower part of the spleen and the hilum initially was performed intracorporeally with the usual laparoscopic view under 12 mm Hg pneumoperitoneum. The alternating changes of viewpoints between the direct view through an 8- to 10-cm incision and the usual laparoscopic view with or without application of a retraction method were effective for safe hilar devascularization. Preoperative splenic artery embolization at the distal site was effective for safe dissection around the enlarged spleen. The patients did not complain of pain before operation. Preoperative painless embolization and laparoscopically assisted splenectomy with small laparotomy promotes the feasibility and safety of minimally invasive splenectomy for myelofibrosis with massive splenomegaly.     

无蓝碟手助腹腔镜巨脾切除术15例报告

目的探讨无蓝碟手助腹腔镜下脾切除术的安全性和疗效。方法 2009年5月～2011年7月,完成手助腹腔镜巨脾切除15例（脾脏长径138～192 mm,平均169 mm）,其中6例行贲门周围血管离断术。上腹正中5～6 cm切口,左手常规进腹,超声刀离断胃结肠韧带后,用伸入腹腔的手指在胰腺上缘将脾动脉主干游离,丝线结扎,并在手指引导下于脾蒂后方穿过吻合器钉仓,击发后离断脾蒂,然后再离断脾周围韧带,完整切除脾脏。结果 15例手术均顺利完成,手术时间76～294 min,平均147 min;出血量55～1100 ml,平均292 ml。术后住院时间7～15 d,平均9.8 d。15例随访1～25个月,平均14个月,血小板在术后18～27 d内（平均24.6 d）恢复正常,术后无远期并发症。结论无蓝碟手助腹腔镜脾切除术手术时间短,术后恢复快,并发症少,是一种值得推广的安全有效的手术方法。     

Laparoscopic Partial Splenectomy: Indications and results of a multicenter retrospective study

Introduction Partial splenectomy (PS) in children is a surgical option in haematological diseases and focal splenic tumours. The aim of this study was to describe the feasibility and the results of laparoscopic partial splenectomy in children in these two indications by a multicentric retrospective study. Methods The authors reviewed the files of all children who underwent laparoscopic PS between March 2002 and September 2006 in two paediatric surgical centers. The data of 11 children were collected and included clinical presentation, age, gender, radiographic examinations, surgical procedure, need for blood transfusion and early complications. Results From March 2002 to September 2006, laparoscopic PS had been performed on 11 children (6 boys, 5 girls) aged 23 months to 11 years (mean 7, 9). Four children had splenic focal tumours and seven had haematological diseases: six hereditary spherocytosis (HS) and one hemoglobinosis E. During the surgical procedure for haematological diseases 75–80% of the splenic tissue was removed. When PS was performed for focal splenic tumours, the splenic remnant was around 70%. No preoperative complications occurred (no bleeding, no diaphragmatic injury). Neither preoperative nor conversion was necessary. One postoperative complication occurred (left pleural effusion) but required no further treatment. The mean hospital stay was 7.7 days (range from 3 days to 10 days). No infectious postoperative complications occurred; the mean follow up was 21.1 months (range 3–52 months). Conclusion Laparoscopic partial splenectomy is feasible and safe in children with hypersplenism or focal splenic tumours. Partial splenectomy is a good way to prevent postsplenectomy infections by preservation of the immune role of spleen in children with haematological diseases. This technique performed for focal splenic tumours allows the surgeon to choose the size of the splenic remnant.     

Concomitant intraoperative splenic artery embolization and laparoscopic splenectomy versus laparoscopic splenectomy: comparison of treatment outcome

INTRODUCTION: Although laparoscopic splenectomy has become the preferred treatment of choice for hematologic-related splenic disorders, intraoperative blood loss remains a common occurrence. In an effort to reduce this risk, we evaluate the potential role and clinical outcome of concomitant intraoperative splenic artery embolization and laparoscopic splenectomy. METHODS: Between June 2000 and July 2005, 18 patients with hematologically related splenic disorders underwent combined intraoperative splenic artery embolization and laparoscopic splenectomy (group 1). For comparison, we studied 18 age- and gender-matched case controls undergoing same operations during the same period (group 2). Intraoperative data and clinical outcome were compared between the 2 groups. RESULTS: Technical success was 100% in group 1. One patient in group 2 was converted to open splenectomy because of severe blood loss, resulting in a technical success rate of 95%. The mean splenic size in group 1 and group 2 was 15.5 +/- 4.7 cm (range, 12-23 cm) and 15.7 +/- 6.8 (range, 11-24 cm), respectively (not significant [NS]). Mean operative time in group 1 and group 2 was 175 minutes and 162 minutes, respectively (NS). Significantly less intraoperative blood loss was noted in group 1 (mean, 25 mL; range, 15-63 mL) compared with group 2 (mean, 240 mL; range, 150-420 mL; P < .003). There was an even greater difference in blood loss between the 2 groups when the splenic size was greater than 18 cm (mean 35 mL in group 1 versus 350 mL in group 2, P < .001). No differences were noted in postoperative recovery, return of bowel function, or length of hospital stay between the 2 groups. CONCLUSIONS: Concomitant splenic artery embolization and laparoscopic splenic reduced operative blood loss when compared with laparoscopic splenectomy procedure alone. Splenic artery embolization is a useful intraoperative adjunctive procedure that should be considered in patients undergoing laparoscopic splenectomy for hematologic disorders who are Jehovah's Witness or with significant hypersplenism because of benefit of reduced blood loss.     

Outcome of laparoscopic splenectomy based on hematologic indication

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic splenectomy is the procedure of choice for elective splenectomy at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation. Although the literature clearly documents the technical feasibility and safety of laparoscopic splenectomy, little data exists concerning the results of this procedure based on the hematologic indication for splenectomy. We sought to examine the clinical experience with laparoscopic splenectomy in a single institution, with particular attention to morbidity and clinical outcomes based on hematologic disease process. METHODS: This study retrospectively reviewed a consecutive series of laparoscopic splenectomies performed for nontraumatic, splenic pathology at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation from August 1995 to January 2001. Patient demographics, operative indications, morbidity, mortality, and clinical outcome were evaluated. Hematologic diagnostic groups were compared using Fisher's exact tests and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests. RESULTS: A total of 147 laparoscopic splenectomies were performed. Seven patients (5%) required conversion to open splenectomy. Indications for splenectomy included idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) in 65 patients, hematologic malignancy in 43 patients, autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) in 9 patients, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) in 9 patients, splenomegaly in 5 patients, splenic cyst in 4 patients, splenic abscess in 3 patients, hereditary spherocytosis in 2 patients, splenic artery aneurysm in 2 patients, Felty's syndrome in 1 patient, myelofibrosis in 1 patient, and other in 3 patients. Accessory spleens were identified in 20 patients (14%). Postoperative complications occurred in 23 (16%) patients. Patients with ITP had significantly shorter operation times (134 vs 163 min; p = 0.001), decreased estimated blood loss (126 vs 307 ml; p = 0.001), decreased length of hospital stay (2.8 vs 4.6 days; p < 0.001), and less chance of conversion (0 vs 7; p = 0.02) than patients with any other diagnosis. A mean follow-up period of 20 +/- 14 months showed an 85% rate of remission for ITP, 89% for TTP, and 89% for AIHA. Patients with malignant disease had significantly larger spleens (822 vs 313 g; p < 0.001), more estimated blood loss (380 vs 168 ml; p = 0.04), and longer operative times (170 vs 142 min; p = 0.009), as compared patients treated for benign disease. However, the length of hospital stay (4.3 vs 3.6 days; p = 0.06) and complication rates (19% vs 14%; p = 0.08) were not significantly different between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS: When performed for ITP, laparoscopic splenectomy resulted in shorter operations, minimal blood loss, earlier discharge, no conversions, and excellent remission rates, as compared with other hematologic indications. Despite larger spleens, more blood loss, and longer operations in patients with hematologic malignancies, morbidity and length of hospital stay still were similar to those associated with benign indications for laparoscopic splenectomy. In conclusion, laparoscopic splenectomy is safe and efficacious for a multitude of benign and malignant hematologic indications, and our data compares favorably to those for open series.     

Robotic Splenectomy: What is the Real Benefit?

Background

The laparoscopic approach to a difficult splenectomy requires a longer total operative time and is frequently associated with an increased risk of bleeding and a high conversion rate.

Methods

A total of 418 elective splenectomies were registered in the Department of General Surgery and Liver Transplantation of Fundeni Clinical Institute between January 1995 and June 2012, of which 299 splenectomies (212 laparoscopic and 77 robotic) were performed by a single surgical team and retrospectively documented. The effect of the learning curve and the relative complexity of each type of procedure were analyzed using the Minimally Invasive Splenectomy Score, which further allowed categorizing the splenectomies as simple or difficult. Statistical analyses using the CUSUM algorithm of the intra- and postoperative parameters of the laparoscopic and robotic approaches, for both the simple and the difficult splenectomies, were performed.

Results

The results of the statistical analyses clearly indicated that there was a learning curve effect for laparoscopic splenectomy but not for robotic splenectomy. When compared with the laparoscopic approach in difficult splenectomies, the robotic approach had a shorter total operative time (84.13 vs. 97.2 min), less blood loss (30.88 vs. 156.9 ml), and decreased risk of hemorrhagic complications during surgery.

Conclusions

Laparoscopic splenectomy remains the approach of choice for simple splenectomies in the surgical treatment for common indications. The robotic system is particularly beneficial in difficult splenectomies (i.e., partial splenectomy, splenectomy in liver cirrhosis, splenic tumors, or malignant hemopathies).     

内结扎法腹腔镜儿童脾切除术的临床体会

目的:探讨內结扎法腹腔镜儿童脾切除术的可行性及临床效果.方法:回顾分析为7例患儿行内结扎法腹腔镜脾切除术的临床资料.镜下先游离显露脾动脉,分别用丝线结扎、切断,再逐一游离显露脾静脉,用丝线结扎、切断.丝线结扎代替Endo-GIA或Hem-o-lok等器械结扎脾门血管.并与同期施行的5例內镜切割闭合钉结扎脾门血管法进行对...     

Pediatric splenic injuries with a contrast blush: successful nonoperative management without angiography and embolization

Background

The presence of a contrast blush on computed tomography (CT) in adult splenic trauma is a risk factor for failure of nonoperative management. Arterial embolization is believed to reduce this failure rate. The significance of a blush in pediatric trauma is unknown. The authors evaluated the outcome of children with blunt splenic trauma and contrast extravasation.

Methods

The trauma registry was queried for all pediatric patients with blunt splenic injuries. Admission CT was reviewed for injury grade and presence of an arterial blush by a radiologist blinded to patient outcome. Hospital and office charts were reviewed for success of nonoperative management, late splenic rupture, and other complications.

Results

One hundred seven children with blunt splenic trauma were identified over a 6-year period. Mean injury grade was 2.9. Six patients required emergency splenectomy. An additional 7 patients met hemodynamic criteria for surgical intervention (3 splenectomies, 4 splenorrhaphies). Admission CT was available in 63 patients. An arterial blush was identified in 5 (9.7%). Four remained stable and were treated conservatively. One underwent splenectomy for hemodynamic instability. There were no cases of delayed splenic rupture, failed nonoperative treatment, or long-term complications.

Conclusions

Contrast blush in children with blunt splenic trauma is rare, and its presence alone does not appear to predict delayed rupture or failure of nonoperative treatment. Based on this limited series, splenic artery embolization does not have a place in the management of splenic injuries in children.     

Laparoscopic subtotal splenectomy in the treatment of hereditary spherocytosis

Clinical manifestations of hereditary spherocytosis, the most common red blood cell membrane disorder, can be controlled by splenectomy. However, concerns regarding exposure of patients to a life long risk for overwhelming infections have restricted its use, especially ?n children. Subtotal splenectomy, as long as 80% to 90% of the enlarged spleen is removed, is a logical alternative. Subtotal splenectomy was effective ?n decreasing the hemolytic rate, while maintaining the phagocytic and immune function of the spleen. This surgical procedure should be considered ?n transfusion-dependent infants and children whit hereditary spherocytosis and ?n older patients whit erythrocyte membrane defects. Based on our experience ?n laparoscopy (120 laparoscopic splenectomies) and open subtotal splenectomy (5 cases) we performed 2 laparoscopic subtotal splenectomies in patients with hereditary microspherocytosis with good short term results. We have had no problem with blood loss and no transfusions were needed. The procedure can be performed safely and easily with all the traditional advantages of a minimally invasive approach. In order to evaluate the long term clinical benefit a minimal follow-up of 5 years is needed.