Radiofrequency-assisted partial splenectomy with a new and simple device

BACKGROUND: Although partial splenectomy is preferable to total splenectomy for maintaining an immune response, several techniques by which splenic parenchyma were divided in partial splenectomy have been controversial. METHODS: Partial splenectomy using a new and simple device that irradiates radiofrequency combined with saline irrigation was performed successfully for a 19-year-old man with a large splenic cyst. Splenic parenchyma coagulated along the cutting line by the device was divided using an ultrasonic dissector. RESULTS: The surgical field was virtually bloodless during the parenchymal transection. Blood loss during the surgery was 50 mL without transfusion and the other hemostatic procedures and transection time was 10 minutes. The patient's postoperative course was uneventful and he was discharged home with a perfused spleen on postcontrast computed tomography. CONCLUSIONS: The radiofrequency-assisted technique allows partial splenectomy as a safe and virtually bloodless alternative to total splenectomy for selected patients.