| Abstract: | lve cirrhotic patients underwent subtotal
splenectomy. The operative technique involved pre-
servation of anatomic segments and suture of an
omental patch to the residual spleen. With knowledge
on segmental vascular anatomy in splenomegaly, sub-
total splenic resection can be readily accomplished
with ease and safety. Follow-up of the 12 patients
showed that the preserved spleen had normal uptake
of 51Cr denatured erythrocyte isotope, high grade
serum IgM, and effect of alleviating fever after
splenectomy. Splenic scan and clinical immunologic
survey revealed the functional capacity of splenic
remnant, and the lower percentage of "pocked"
RBCs, an important clue to eusplenia. Thus, the
normal function and size retained of the residual
spleen were saved. If long-term follow-up confirms
the value of segmental splenectomy, it may become
an adjuvant treatment in lowering portal hyperten
sion in cirrhotic patients. |
