Splenectomy in childhood: a review in England and Wales, 1960-4

Temporal trends of splenectomy in pediatric hospitalizations with immune thrombocytopenia

BACKGROUND

Splenectomy is considered an effective treatment for immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) with 70-80% response rate. However, its current use is limited in children with ITP. It is unclear if the rates of splenectomy have changed over time. Using a large nationally representative database, we aimed to study the trends of splenectomy in pediatric hospitalizations with ITP, and the factors associated with splenectomy during these encounters.

METHODS

Using National (Nationwide) Inpatient Sample (NIS), and international classification of diseases (9th revision), clinical modification (ICD-9-CM) codes, we studied pediatric ITP hospitalizations with occurrence of total splenectomy between 2005 and 2014.

RESULTS

Out of 37,844 weighted ITP hospitalizations from 2005 to 2014; total splenectomy was performed in 954 encounters. Splenectomy rate declined over time (3.4% [2005-2006] to 1.6% [2013-2014], P < 0.001) with the younger age (≤5 years) having the most notable decline (0.91% [2005-2006] to 0.14% [2013-2014], P < 0.001). Splenectomy had higher odds of being performed electively than non-electively (odds ratio [OR]: 19.34, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 12.06-31.02, P < 0.001). Encounters with intracranial bleed were associated with the occurrence of splenectomy (OR: 17.87, 95% CI: 5.07-62.97, P < 0.001). Intracranial bleed (P < 0.001), gastrointestinal bleed (P < 0.01), sepsis (P < 0.001), and thrombosis (P < 0.001) were associated with longer length of stay and higher cost of hospitalization.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, splenectomy rates consistently declined over time. Intracranial hemorrhage during hospitalizations with ITP was associated with occurrence of splenectomy. Future studies should continue to reevaluate the rates of splenectomy in pediatric ITP in the presence of various second-line pharmacologic agents.

Laparoscopic fenestration for a huge symptomatic splenic cyst in a patient with Gaucher's disease

A 34-year-old woman visited our hospital for treatment of a huge splenic cyst with epigastric pain. She had been diagnosed with Gaucher's disease (Type 1) at 3 years of age and had been receiving enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) from 15 years of age. Abdominal MRI showed a low-intensity area, 30 cm in diameter, with a well-defined border on T1-weighted images. The patient underwent laparoscopic fenestration of the huge splenic cyst for relief of worsening epigastric pain caused by the cyst. The cyst contained 2,500 ml of brownish-red fluid. The patient recovered satisfactorily and was discharged on postoperative day 11. Gaucher's disease is an extremely rare metabolic disease; only about 6,000 patients are registered in the International Collaborative Gaucher Group Gaucher Registry. An extremely rare case of a huge symptomatic splenic cyst treated by laparoscopic fenestration in a patient with Gaucher's disease is described.

The Asplenic Patient: Post-Insult Immunocompetence, Infection, and Vaccination

BACKGROUND

Splenic injury can occur through multiple mechanisms and may result in various degrees of residual immunocompetence. Functionally or anatomically asplenic patients are at higher risk for infection, particularly with encapsulated bacteria. Vaccination is recommended to prevent infection with these organisms; however, the recommendations are routinely updated, and vaccine selection and timing are complex.

METHODS

Review of the pertinent English-language literature, including the recommendations of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices.

RESULTS

Overwhelming post-splenectomy infection is associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. Patients requiring splenectomy for trauma-related injury appear to be at lower risk for infection than those undergoing splenectomy for a hematologic or oncologic indication. Initial vaccination is dependent on immunization history but generally should consist of the 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate, quadrivalent meningococcal conjugate, meningococcal serogroup B, and Haemophilus influenzae serotype b (Hib) vaccines. Antimicrobial prophylaxis for certain asplenic patients, such as children under the age of five y, may be indicated.

CONCLUSION

Immunization remains a key measure to prevent overwhelming post-splenectomy infection. Consideration of new recommendations and indications, possible interactions, and timing remains important to including optimal response to the vaccines.

A case report of bacteremia manifesting as an overwhelming postsplenectomy infection due to Streptococcus pneumoniae post vaccination

A 62-year-old woman was admitted for acute epigastralgia and high-grade fever of over 39 °C. The patient had undergone splenectomy for idiopathic portal hypertension 1 year ago and vaccination against Streptococcus pneumoniae immediately post operation. She developed localized peritoneal irritation and abdominal distension. Her serum creatinine had increased to 1.5 mg/dL and procalcitonin was 12.5 ng/ml. Computed tomography of the abdomen revealed edematous large intestine and increased ascites. From these results, the patient was considered to have spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP). Vancomycin (VCM) and doripenem (DRPM) were administered to control the infection. Unexpectedly, S. pneumoniae was detected in the blood culture. Hence, ampicillin/sulbactam was administered after discontinuing VCM. The patient recovered without any life-threatening complications and was discharged after 10 days. In conclusion, overwhelming postsplenectomy infection (OPSI) due to S. pneumoniae could develop in patient with splenectomy even after vaccination. Although the bacteremia probably due to SBP and acute renal dysfunction was accompanied by OPSI, our patient recovered rapidly.

Overwhelming post splenectomy infection syndrome - review study

The spleen has an abundance of lymphoid tissue, including splenic macrophages that attack encapsulated organisms. Overwhelming post-splenectomy infection (OPSI) is a serious disease that can progress from a mild flu-like illness to fulminant sepsis in a short time period. However, recognition and clinical management of OPSI is not well established. Patients who are asplenic or hyposplenic are at an increased risk for infection and death from encapsulated organisms and other dangerous pathogens. Although relatively rare, it has a high mortality rate with delayed or inadequate treatment, and therefore it is important for Emergency Physicians to be familiar with it. Durations between Splenectomy and onset of OPSI ranged from less than 1 wk to more than 20 years. Although the mortality rate from OPSI has been reduced by appropriate vaccination and education. The precise pathogenesis and a suitable therapeutic strategy remain to be elucidated. Overwhelming postsplenectomy infection (OPSI) is a serious fulminant process that carries a high mortality rate.

Long-term risks after splenectomy among 8,149 cancer-free American veterans: a cohort study with up to 27 years follow-up

Although preservation of the spleen following abdominal trauma and spleen-preserving surgical procedures have become gold standards, about 22,000 splenectomies are still conducted annually in the USA. Infections, mostly by encapsulated organisms, are the most well-known complications following splenectomy. Recently, thrombosis and cancer have become recognized as potential adverse outcomes post-splenectomy. Among more than 4 million hospitalized USA veterans, we assessed incidence and mortality due to infections, thromboembolism, and cancer including 8,149 cancer-free veterans who underwent splenectomy with a follow-up of up to 27 years. Relative risk estimates and 95% confidence intervals were calculated using time-dependent Poisson regression methods for cohort data. Splenectomized patients had an increased risk of being hospitalized for pneumonia, meningitis, and septicemia (rate ratios=1.9-3.4); deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism (rate ratios=2.2); certain solid tumors: buccal, esophagus, liver, colon, pancreas, lung, and prostate (rate ratios =1.3-1.9); and hematologic malignancies: non-Hodgkin lymphoma, Hodgkin lymphoma, multiple myeloma, acute myeloid leukemia, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, chronic myeloid leukemia, and any leukemia (rate ratios =1.8-6.0). They also had an increased risk of death due to pneumonia and septicemia (rate ratios =1.6-3.0); pulmonary embolism and coronary artery disease (rate ratios =1.4-4.5); any cancer: liver, pancreas, and lung cancer, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, Hodgkin lymphoma, and any leukemia (rate ratios =1.3-4.7). Many of the observed risks were increased more than 10 years after splenectomy. Our results underscore the importance of vaccination, surveillance, and thromboprophylaxis after splenectomy.

Overwhelming postsplenectomy infection syndrome in adults - A clinically preventable disease

Overwhelming postsplenectomy infection (OPSI) syndrome is a rare condition, but is associated with high mortality. However, recognition and clinical management of OPSI is not well established. The prevalence of splenectomy increased recently because it was a clinically effective treatment for hepatitis C virus-associated thrombocytopenia before the introduction of the interferon/ribavirin combination therapy. We reviewed the literature characterizing the clinicopathological features of OPSI and assessed the most effective and feasible administration of the condition. A Medline search was performed using the keywords 'overwhelming', 'postsplenectomy infection', 'postsplenectomy sepsis', 'chronic liver disease', and/or 'splenectomy'. Additional articles were obtained from references within the papers identified by the Medline search. Durations between splenectomy and onset of OPSI ranged from less than 1 wk to more than 20 years. Autopsy showed that many patients with OPSI also had Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome. Although the mortality rate from OPSI has been reduced by appropriate vaccination and education, the precise pathogenesis and a suitable therapeutic strategy remain to be elucidated. Protein energy malnutrition (PEM) is commonly observed in cirrhotic patients. Since the immune response in patients with PEM is compromised, a more careful management for OPSI should therefore be applied for cirrhotic patients after splenectomy. In addition, strict long-term follow up of OPSI patients including informed consent will lead to a better prognosis.

Splenectomy in children with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura: A prospective study of 134 children from the Intercontinental Childhood ITP Study Group

BACKGROUND

Splenectomy is an effective procedure for children and adults with severe or refractory idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). Data regarding pediatric patients are limited.

PROCEDURE

Sixty-eight Intercontinental Childhood ITP Study Group (ICIS) investigators from 57 institutions in 25 countries participated in a splenectomy registry. Data from 153 patients were submitted, of whom 134 had a splenectomy and were analyzed.

RESULTS

The median age at splenectomy was 11.8 (2.7-20.7) years. The median postsplenectomy follow-up was 2.0 (0.1-4.5) years. Pre-splenectomy vaccination was not administered in 21 children (15.7%). Open and laparoscopic splenectomy procedures were performed in 67 and 65 evaluable children, respectively. Surgical technique was not reported in two children. Overall immediate platelet response to splenectomy was achieved in 113 patients (86.3%). Eighty percent of responders maintained their status of response during the following 4 years. Older age, longer duration of ITP, and male gender correlated with a complete response. Post-splenectomy sepsis was reported in seven patients without lethal outcome, although sepsis might be differently defined at participating institutions.

CONCLUSIONS

Splenectomy is effective in children with ITP. Management varies greatly in different institutions. These Registry data may serve as a basis for future clinical trials to assess the indication and timing of splenectomy.

Surgical Infection Society Guidelines for Vaccination after Traumatic Injury

BACKGROUND

Recommendations for vaccination of injured patients against infection are evolving. Newly-recognized infections, safety considerations, changing epidemiology, and redefinition of patient groups at risk are factors that may influence vaccine development priorities and recommendations for immunization. However, recommendations must often be formulated based on incomplete data, forcing reliance on expert opinion to address some crucial questions. These guidelines provide evidence-based recommendations for the prevention or treatment of infectious morbidity and mortality after traumatic injury, such as soft tissue wounds, human or animal bites, or after splenectomy.

METHODS

A panel of experts conducted a thorough review of published literature, as well as information posted on the internet at the websites of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, among others. MEDLINE was searched for the period 1966-2004 using relevant terms including "anthrax," "rabies," "tetanus," "tetanus toxoid," and " splenectomy," in combination with "vaccine" and "immunization." The Cochrane database was searched also. Reference lists were cross-referenced for additional relevant citations. All published reports were analyzed for quality and graded, with the strength of the recommendation proportionate to the quality of the supporting evidence.

RESULTS

Recommendations are provided for pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis of rabies and anthrax. For tetanus prophylaxis, recommendations are provided for prophylaxis of acute wounds stratified y age and prior immunization status, and for immunization of persons at high risk. After splenectomy, it is recommended that all persons ages 2-64 years receive 23- valent pneumococcal vaccine and meningococcal vaccine, with Haemophilus influenzae type B vaccine administered to high-risk patients as well (all are Grade D recommendations). Vaccination should be given two weeks before elective splenectomy (Grade C), or two weeks after emergency splenectomy (Grade D). A booster dose of pneumococcal vaccine is recommended after five years (Grade D); no re- vaccination recommendation is made for meningococcal or Haemophilus influenzae type B vaccine. Recommendations for prophylaxis of splenectomized children under the age of five years are also provided.

CONCLUSION

There are limited data on the use of vaccines after injury. This document brings together a disparate literature of variable quality into a discussion of the infectious risks after injury relevant to vaccine administration, a summary of safety and adverse effects of vaccines, and evidence-based recommendations for vaccination.

Guidelines for the diagnosis and management of hereditary spherocytosis

Hereditary spherocytosis (HS) is a heterogeneous group of disorders with regard to clinical severity, protein defects and mode of inheritance. It is relatively common in Caucasian populations; most affected individuals have mild or only moderate haemolysis. There is usually a family history, and a typical clinical and laboratory picture so that the diagnosis is often easily made without additional laboratory tests. Atypical cases may require measurement of erythrocyte membrane proteins to clarify the nature of the membrane disorder and in the absence of a family history, occasionally molecular genetic analysis will help to determine whether inheritance is recessive or non-dominant. It is particularly important to rule out stomatocytosis where splenectomy is contraindicated because of the thrombotic risk. Mild HS can be managed without folate supplements and does not require splenectomy. Moderately and severely affected individuals are likely to benefit from splenectomy, which should be performed after the age of 6 years and with appropriate counselling about the infection risk. In all cases careful dialogue between doctor, patient and the family is essential. Laparoscopic surgery, when performed by experienced surgeons, can result in a shorter hospital stay and less pain.

Risk of infection and death among post-splenectomy patients

OBJECTIVES

The true incidence of post-splenectomy sepsis remains undetermined.

METHODS

An English literature review on post-splenectomy sepsis was undertaken by means of databases of MEDLINE for the period 1966-96. The data registered included age at splenectomy, indication for splenectomy, incidence of infection and death, interval between splenectomy and infection, and microbial aetiology.

RESULTS

The reports include 19 680 patients having undergone splenectomy with a median follow up of 6.9 years. The incidence of infection after splenectomy was 3.2% and the mortality rate was 1.4%. Only 6942 reports were sufficiently detailed to allow useful analysis. The incidence of infection among children and adults was similar, 3.3% and 3.2%, respectively. However, the death rates among children were higher than adults (1.7% vs. 1.3%). The incidence of infection was highest among patients with thalassemia major (8.2%), and sickle-cell anaemia (7.3%). The highest mortality rates were observed among patients with thalassaemia major (5.1%), and sickle-cell anaemia (4.8%).

CONCLUSION

The incidence of sepsis among post-splenectomy patients is low, however, it carries a high mortality rate especially among children with hematological disorders.

[Median and long-term complications of splenectomy]

Splenectomy was one of the most common operations in abdominal surgery. During the past decade, an increased rate of late complications, especially septic and thromboembolic complications occurring after splenectomy, have been reported. The septic complications are well documented. The risk is related to the indication of splenectomy, and is less than 1% in adults without immunodeficiency. However, these overwhelming postsplenectomy infections are associated with a high mortality rate, about 50%. The best treatment of these infections is preventive measures which are based on vaccination and education of asplenic patients. The thromboembolic complications are rare, little studied, and specific preventive procedures have not been implemented.

Laparoscopic splenectomy for a giant splenic epidermoid cyst: report of a case

The use of laparoscopic splenectomy has increased in recent years, primarily for patients with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). We describe herein the first known case of a laparoscopic splenectomy to be performed in Japan for a patient with a giant splenic epidermoid cyst. A 26-year-old woman presented to our hospital with the major complaint of a feeling of abdominal fullness. Prior to surgery, an ultrasound-guided splenic cyst puncture was conducted for diagnostic purposes as well as to reduce the size of the cyst. The carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA 19-9) level was found to be elevated in the cystic contents and in the serum. Under laparoscopic guidance, the splenic vessels were ligated using a device for extracorporeal ligation, then divided. After the resected spleen had been placed in a retrieval bag, it was delivered out of the abdominal cavity without fragmentation. Following surgery, the patient's serum CA 19-9 level returned to normal. Splenic epidermoid cysts are most often encountered in young women, and laparoscopic surgery to remove cysts of this type is both minimally invasive and excellent from a cosmetic standpoint. Thus, laparoscopic surgery should be considered as the method of choice for the majority of patients diagnosed with a splenic epidermoid cyst.

Elective splenectomy in children with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to review the safety and efficacy of elective splenectomy in children with idiopathic (immune) thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP).

METHODS

The authors reviewed the medical records of children with ITP treated with elective splenectomy at Children's Medical Center of Dallas since 1961. Indication for splenectomy was symptomatic thrombocytopenia unresponsive to medical management.

RESULTS

Thirty-eight evaluable patients who had elective splenectomy for ITP were identified. Twenty-one (55%) were girls and 17 (45%) were boys. Twenty-two had splenectomy since January 1990. Age at diagnosis ranged from 6 months to 15.9 years (median 9 years), and age at splenectomy ranged from 3.6 to 16.4 years (median 11.8). Laparoscopic splenectomy was performed in 11 patients. No patient died and only one (2.6%) had postoperative hemorrhage. There were no other complications related to surgery. No cases of postsplenectomy sepsis were observed. At follow-up ranging from 1 month to 19.9 years (median 2.1 years), 29 patients (76.3%) had a normal platelet count (>150 x 109/L) and 4 (10.5%) had a platelet count between 50 and 150 x 109/L. Only two of the five (13.2%) remaining patients who continued to have a platelet count less than 50 x 109/L had hemorrhagic manifestations necessitating intermittent therapy with corticosteroids.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic or open splenectomy is a safe and effective procedure for children with chronic or refractory ITP and should be considered when medical management fails or causes excessive toxicity.

Is splenectomy for massive splenomegaly safe in children?

PURPOSE

To study and analyze the causes, etiology, morbidity, mortality and therapeutic value of splenectomy performed for massive splenomegaly in children.

METHODS

The medical records of 115 children less than 18 years old who had splenectomy for various hematological disorders were reviewed. Twenty of them had splenectomy for massive splenomegaly (spleen weight > or =1,000 g). The records of these were reviewed for age at operation, gender, hematological diagnosis, indication for splenectomy, operative procedures, postoperative complications, and outcome.

RESULTS

Twenty children had splenectomy for massive splenomegaly. There were 16 males and 4 females. Their ages ranged from 4 to 15 years (mean 11.2). Twelve had sickle cell disease, 5 had sickle-beta-thalassemia, 1 had beta-thalassemia major, 1 had thalassemia intermediate, and 1 had chronic myeloid leukemia. The indications for splenectomy were hypersplenism in 11, recurrent splenic sequestration crisis in 8, and splenic abscess in 1. The transfusion requirements in the patient with beta-thalassemia major decreased markedly postoperatively from 18 transfusions/year to only 4 transfusions/year; and for those with hypersplenism, there was a marked improvement in their blood parameters following splenectomy. The patient with thalassemia intermediate required no more blood transfusions. There was no mortality. The immediate postoperative morbidity was 10% for those with massive splenomegaly compared with 6.3% for those with splenomegaly <1,000 g.

CONCLUSIONS

With good perioperative management, splenectomy in children with massive splenomegaly is both safe and effective.

Prevention and management of overwhelming postsplenectomy infection--an update

OBJECTIVES

To review the diagnosis and management of overwhelming postsplenectomy infection and to discuss various preventative measures.

DATA SOURCES

Data used to prepare this article were drawn from published articles and work in progress.

STUDY SELECTION

Articles were selected for relevance to the subject after location by a MEDLINE key word search.

DATA EXTRACTION

The literature was reviewed to summarize the etiology and pathophysiology of postsplenectomy sepsis. Preventative strategies were outlined with a particular emphasis on education, immunoprophylaxis, and chemoprophylaxis.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Although physicians have become increasingly aware of overwhelming postsplenectomy infection in children, many remain unaware of the risk to asplenic or hyposplenic adults who may have no underlying medical problems. Recent studies have shown that many patients who have had splenectomies have had neither appropriate vaccinations nor teaching that would explain the lifelong nature of their risk. The increasing incidence of penicillin-resistant pneumococci represents a major area of therapeutic and prophylactic concern. The identification of Howell-Jolly bodies on a peripheral blood smear should alert physicians to the need for follow-up to document possible hyposplenism. Attention has focused on a three-pronged attack to this problem, including education, immunoprophylaxis, and chemoprophylaxis.

CONCLUSIONS

Overwhelming postsplenectomy infection should be largely preventable if appropriate precautions are taken. Physicians need to know of the spectrum of diseases associated with hyposplenism and how patients noted to have Howell-Jolly bodies should be investigated. They should also be aware of appropriate guidelines for management of patients with asplenia or hyposplenism.

Prophylactic splenectomy and cholecystectomy in mild hereditary spherocytosis: analyzing the decision in different clinical scenarios

OBJECTIVES

Patients with mild hereditary spherocytosis (HS), i.e. with haemolysis without anaemia. have an increased risk of gallstone formation, erythroid aplasia and haemolytic crisis. Since the effect of prophylactic splenectomy on life expectancy has not been established, we conducted a decision analysis comparing prophylactic splenectomy and cholecystectomy with no surgery.

DESIGN

The available data on surgery and disease outcomes were modelled to estimate the effects of the different interventions on the quality-adjusted life expectancy. The early phase outcomes depicted surgery-related mortality and incorporated compliance and the adverse effects of prophylaxis against post splenectomy infections. The late phase outcomes were framed by a Markov cohort analysis.

RESULTS

For patients without gallstones, surgery was of no benefit. For those with gallstones the preferred strategies were found to be splenectomy and cholecystectomy before the age of 39 when asymptomatic, and before 52 when accompanied by occasional biliary colic. Cholecystectomy alone proved to be the preferred strategy in older patients with occasional biliary colic. For patients of up to 52 years of age and candidates for cholecystectomy because of recurrent biliary colic, the best strategy was to combine this procedure with splenectomy. Sensitivity analysis showed that the results were sensitive to the incidence of post cholecystectomy syndrome. Most remarkably an extreme sensitivity to compliance with post splenectomy infection prophylaxis was demonstrated.

CONCLUSIONS

Our model suggested that combined prophylactic splenectomy and cholecystectomy provide a substantial gain in quality-adjusted life expectancy for young patients and adults with mild HS and gallstones.

Elective partial splenectomy in childhood

BACKGROUND & PURPOSE

The indications and results of elective partial splenectomy in children remain uncertain. The aim of this study was to determine (1) the indications for elective partial splenectomy (EPS), (2) the extent of splenic resection, and (3) the complications of EPS.

METHODS

Patients who underwent EPS from three centers over a 10-year period (1986 through 1996) were studied. Variables analyzed included clinical presentation and indications for EPS, extent of resection performed, perioperative transfusions, and complications. Postoperatively, splenic viability was determined by regular Doppler ultrasound scan and splenic function on peripheral blood film analysis.

RESULTS

EPS was attempted in 12 children for various conditions: giant epithelial cyst (n = 6), hypersplenism and metabolic disease (n = 4), pseudotumor (n = 1), and abscess (n = 1). One procedure was converted to total splenectomy because of thin splenic tissue around an infected giant cyst. No child required transfusion for splenic bleeding. There were no postoperative complications or deaths. Only 7 of the 12 children received prophylactic preoperative immunisation. In the 11 successful cases splenic remnant viability remains confirmed by ultrasound scan and normal blood film. There has been no significant splenic regrowth or recurrent hypersplenism in the four children with metabolic disorders.

CONCLUSIONS

EPS is suitable for benign splenic conditions and can be performed without major blood loss. Preoperative vaccination is advisable. Up to 95% of the spleen can be safely removed, basing the blood supply of the residual spleen tissue on peripheral polar vessels, with adequate postoperative function.

Should repeated partial splenectomy be attempted in patients with hematological diseases? Technical pitfalls and causes of failure in Gaucher's disease

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

The awareness of the risk of overwhelming sepsis after splenectomy prompted surgeons to attempt splenic preservation in patients who had hematologic diseases for which splenectomy was the conventional treatment. Partial splenectomy for Gaucher's disease was widely performed before the introduction of alglucerase. In sporadic cases a second partial splenectomy had also been attempted.

METHODS

The authors present three cases of failed repeated partial splenectomy attempted before alglucerase was available. The role of angiography in planning operative strategy and the surgical pitfalls of this unusual reintervention are discussed.

CONCLUSION

New indications for partial splenectomy in other hematologic diseases makes the experience gained with Gaucher's disease valuable for management decisions.

Causes of death among patients surviving at least one year following splenectomy

BACKGROUND

To assess the mortality (mostly long-term sequelae) of patients undergoing splenectomy, we carried out a population-based study in Sweden.

METHODS

Using the unique personal identification number assigned to each Swedish resident, we linked centralized hospitalization records with nationwide mortality data. After initially assessing risks within the first 12 months after splenectomy, we excluded deaths during the first year and computed standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) for 1,297 patients splenectomized for external trauma and 991 surgically treated for nonmalignant conditions of adjacent organs who were alive at 12 months following surgery. The general Swedish population was used as the comparison.

RESULTS

Both men and women undergoing splenectomy for external trauma had a 1.6-fold (SMR = 1.6) significantly elevated mortality risk, due mainly to circulatory diseases (particularly thromboembolism), alcoholism, digestive disorders, and external causes. Men also had a 28-fold increased mortality from septicemia and an excess of liver cirrhosis (mostly alcohol-related). Patients of both genders splenectomized for nonmalignant conditions had small but significantly elevated mortality overall (SMR = 1.4 to 1.5) reflecting excess risks for malignancies, diseases of blood-forming organs, external causes, and circulatory, respiratory, and digestive disorders. In addition, men had increased mortality from thromboembolism and pneumonia while women experienced elevated risks from septicemia.

CONCLUSION

The excess mortality resulted from functional postsplenectomy defects (including sepsis and thromboembolism), behaviors increasing risk of traumatic splenic injury (eg, alcoholism), damage to other organs from the external trauma (eg, traumatic injury to the central nervous system/spinal cord), or the same or recurrent nonmalignant conditions for which surgery was performed (eg, gastric and duodenal ulcers).

Splenosis is regulated by a circulating factor

Splenic rupture may result in splenosis, the growth of splenic fragments. We used a parabiotic model to test the hypothesis that splenotic growth is governed by a circulating mediator(s). Pairs of C57B1/6 mice underwent side-to-side anastomosis. After 2 weeks, each of four groups underwent a second operation in which one or both of the partners had a sham operation or a splenectomy, or had splenic fragments transplanted into their peritoneums, or some combination thereof. Six weeks later, splenotic fragments were excised and weighed. Spleen fragments involuted when inserted into the pairs that had two intact spleens. In contrast, in pairs with one intact spleen and one set of fragments, multiple splenules developed, whose aggregate mass was approximately half (ratio, 0.53 +/- 0.04 [mean +/- SE]) that of the original transplanted fragments. Significantly more splenosis (P < .01) developed in pairs with no intact spleens and one set of fragments (0.82 +/- 0.04). The pairs with no intact spleens and twice as many fragments had an intermediate amount of splenosis (0.66 +/- 0.08). The authors conclude that (1) splenosis is inhibited by a factor (or factors) that circulates across the capillary network in a parabiotic pair of mice, and (2) the level of inhibition of splenosis appears to be directly proportional to total splenic mass. The authors speculate that spleen-saving operations, even if partial, may decrease the incidence of splenosis in the patient with a shattered spleen.

"How safe is splenectomy?"

The increased risk of sepsis in patients following splenectomy has been well documented. Fear of overwhelming post-splenectomy sepsis (OPSI) has resulted in a generalized trend towards splenic salvage among surgeons. However, splenorrhaphy and attempts at splenic salvage may of themselves predispose to significant morbidity, sometimes more serious than increased susceptibility to infection associated with splenectomy. This study aims to assess the risk of splenectomy and subsequent asplenia. We reviewed 246 patients who underwent splenectomy over a 16 year period. Indications for splenectomy were considered under the following headings: haematological (N = 116), trauma (N = 69), visceral carcinoma (N = 28), incidental (N = 13) and miscellaneous (N = 20). There were 28 deaths in the series, primarily among those in the intra-abdominal carcinoma (13) and multiple trauma (13) groups. Two deaths were recorded among patients undergoing elective splenectomy for benign disease. Thrombo-embolic complications were recorded in nine patients; respiratory tract infection in 36 patients and intra-abdominal abscess in two patients. Two cases of post-splenectomy pneumococcal septicaemia were documented, neither of which was fatal. While not an entirely benign procedure, splenectomy can be performed relatively safely, especially when performed for benign disease in an adult population.

Redistribution of granulocytes during adrenaline infusion and following administration of cortisol in healthy volunteers

Major surgical procedures induce an endocrine metabolic stress response characterized by increased secretion of adrenaline and cortisol. Furthermore, surgical stress is accompanied by granulocytosis in peripheral blood. The granulocytosis may be due to increased adrenaline and cortisol secretion. The purpose of this study was to investigate the redistribution of granulocytes during adrenaline infusion and following administration of cortisol. Granulocytes were isolated from peripheral blood from eight healthy volunteers, labelled with indium-111-tropolene and reinjected. The distribution of granulocytes was imaged by using a gamma camera and calculated with an interfaced computer three times during a control period and three times during a corresponding hour af adrenaline infusion 0.05 micrograms kg b.w.-1 min-1. The distribution was then measured every second h for another 6-h control period and then for 6 h following administration of cortisol 3.6 mg kg b.w.-1. Infusion of adrenaline resulted in granulocytosis in peripheral blood and a reduction of radioactivity of the spleen to 83.0% of the initial value. The effect of adrenaline on the bone marrow was negligible. Cortisol administration was followed by granulocytosis and decreased radioactivity of both the spleen (81.5%) and the bone marrow (79.8%). It is concluded that the spleen is an active immunological organ as both adrenaline and cortisol induces efflux of granulocytes from the spleen. The cortisol induced efflux of granulocytes from the bone marrow explains that granulocytosis also occurs in splenectomized patients after major surgery.

Efficacy of passive immunotherapy in experimental postsplenectomy sepsis due to Haemophilus influenzae type B

In an effort to develop a more effective therapy for postsplenectomy sepsis, ceftriaxone and human intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), alone and in combination, were evaluated for their efficacy against experimental Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib) bacteremia in splenectomized and sham-operated infant rats. Five-day-old animals had either a splenectomy or sham operation. At 12 days of age, they were challenged intraperitoneally with Hib. Fifteen hours later blood specimens were obtained for quantitative bacterial cultures, and immediately thereafter therapy was started with ceftriaxone, IVIG, combination of ceftriaxone and IVIG, or albumin (control). Quantitative blood cultures were repeated 24 and 48 hours after the treatment. Prior to the treatments, splenectomized animals had significantly higher bacterial counts in blood when compared with sham-operated animals (P < .001). Splenectomized animals receiving IVIG, ceftriaxone, or the combination of IVIG and ceftriaxone had significantly increased bacterial clearance from blood when compared with the controls (P < .01). In addition, animals treated with ceftriaxone or the combination of IVIG and ceftriaxone had significantly increased bacterial clearance compared with the IVIG alone treatment group (P < .01). Overall, the mortality was significantly higher in splenectomized animals compared with the sham-operated animals (P < .05). The control animals had significantly higher mortality compared with the IVIG, ceftriaxone, and combined ceftriaxone and IVIG treatment groups (P < .05). There were no detrimental effects of combining IVIG and ceftriaxone together.

Partial splenectomy in Gaucher's disease: follow-up report

This is a follow-up report of three children who had partial splenectomy and are suffering from Gaucher's disease. A few years following partial splenectomy in every patient, the remaining spleen enlarged and hypersplenism reappeared; partial splenectomy did not prevent bone destruction if it already existed before partial splenectomy. Treatment with Ceredase parallel with partial splenectomy may have theoretical and practical advantages.

Long-term follow-up of partial splenectomy in Gaucher's disease

Seven children with Gaucher's disease who underwent partial splenectomy were followed for 7 to 8 years. None of the children had systemic sepsis or symptoms related to liver enlargement. Bone crisis occurred in only two children who had experienced bone crisis prior to partial splenectomy. This contrasts with the development of bone crises in five of six children who underwent total splenectomy at a similar age and who had previously been free of bone symptoms. Partial splenectomy should be regarded as a temporary solution in the treatment of hypersplenism and the mechanical compression related to the huge spleen. In 71% of the patients, massive enlargement and a severe to moderate degree of pancytopenia occurred again after 3 to 8 years; total splenectomy was required in three patients.

Partial splenectomy for massive splenomegaly secondary to Gaucher's disease

A 16 year old girl with Type 1 Gaucher's disease presented with massive splenomegaly, hypersplenism and abdominal discomfort. Traditionally hypersplenism has been treated with splenectomy, but this results in a high incidence of overwhelming sepsis and accelerated sphingolipid deposition in both liver and bone. A 90% partial splenectomy was therefore performed leaving a fully vascularized inferior segment of the spleen and resecting 5.8 kg of splenic tissue. The patient made an uneventful recovery with a marked improvement in her haematological parameters and general condition.

Postsplenectomy sepsis and its mortality rate: actual versus perceived risks

A collective critical review of the literature on postsplenectomy sepsis from 1952 to 1987 has been undertaken. The reports cover a cohort of 12,514 patients undergoing splenectomy but of these only 5902 reports were sufficiently detailed to allow a useful analysis. The incidence of infection after splenectomy in children under 16 years old was 4.4 per cent with a mortality rate of 2.2 per cent. The corresponding figures for adults were 0.9 per cent and 0.8 per cent respectively. The present analysis of well documented patients has shown that severe infection after splenectomy for benign disease is very uncommon except in infants (infection rate 15.7 per cent) and children below the age of 5 years (infection rate 10.4 per cent). Many of these reported postsplenectomy infections may have been coincidental. It is also apparent that children contract a different type of infection after splenectomy than adults, predominantly a meningitis which is less frequently fatal. Adults, in contrast, appear to develop a septicaemic type of illness associated with a higher mortality rate. This survey has also shown that children are reported to be more susceptible to pneumococcal sepsis than to infection caused by any other organism. Although the removal of the spleen in otherwise normal people does not appear to be associated with an increased frequency of infection, the presence of a coexistent disorder, notably hepatic disease, can increase the risk substantially.

A 27-year experience with splenectomy for Gaucher's disease

Gaucher's disease is an inherited metabolic disorder caused by the defective activity of acid beta-glucosidase and the resultant accumulation of glucosyl ceramide-laden macrophages in the liver, bone, and spleen. Splenectomy is the preferred treatment for patients with Gaucher's disease who develop massive splenomegaly with accompanying hypersplenism and/or mechanical pressure symptoms. The charts of 48 patients with Gaucher's disease undergoing splenectomy at our institution between January 1963 and December 1989 were analyzed to determine the short- and long-term results of this procedure. Thirty-five (73%) patients had total splenectomy, whereas 13 (27%) patients had partial splenectomy. There was one postoperative death (after total splenectomy), and 13 patients (27%) had postoperative complications. Eleven patients (23%) presented with accelerated bone disease after total splenectomy (mean follow-up: 96 months). No patients having partial splenectomy (mean follow-up: 25 months) developed progressive bone disease. Eight patients have died since surgery. All four deaths due to malignant disease occurred in patients after total splenectomy. The results of this largest-ever reported series of splenectomy for Gaucher's disease confirm that while either total or partial splenectomy can be performed with minimal morbidity and mortality, total splenectomy is accompanied by more aggressive bone disease and a predisposition to malignancy. Prospective, randomized trials are needed to substantiate whether partial splenectomy is indeed the treatment of choice for splenomegaly associated with Gaucher's disease.

Spontaneous rupture of a splenotic nodule

A case is presented of spontaneous rupture of splenic tissue occurring 14 years after a splenectomy was carried out for trauma. Spontaneous rupture of a splenotic nodule has not previously been described and it may be added to the list of causes of spontaneous haemoperitoneum. The incidence and function of residual splenic tissue are briefly discussed and other causes of splenic rupture are outlined.

Ninety-five percent splenectomy for massive splenomegaly: a new surgical approach

Subtotal splenectomy for children with Gaucher's disease has been a major contribution. When spleens of massive size are mobilized for partial resection, it may be technically difficult to remove more than 80% to 85% and still maintain hilar blood supply. The short gastric vessels are enlarged in patients who have marked splenomegaly and provide sufficient vascularity to support the 5% of remaining spleen that is desired in these patients. When the upper pole of the spleen is retained, as in the present case, the cut surface is relatively small and hemostasis is technically easier to achieve than when resection is performed closer to the center of the spleen.

Splenectomy in children with sickle cell disease and thalassemia

A number of Saudi children (31) with sickle cell disease and thalassemia underwent splenectomy: 12 for frequent blood transfusions, 15 for chronic hypersplenism (most of whom were also the recipients of periodic blood transfusion) and 4 for splenic abscess. The mean age of splenectomy was 8.8 years (8 months-18 years). Eight patients had sickle cell disease, 14 beta-thalassemia and 9 had sickle cell thalassemia. All patients received prophylaxis against pneumococcal infection. There was one postoperative death most probably due to sepsis. Sixteen of those who required frequent preoperative blood transfusions needed no more transfusions, while in 7 the need for transfusions decreased significantly (p less than 0.05). For those with hypersplenism, there was a significant postoperative increase in total hemoglobin (P less than 0.001), RBC (P less than 0.001) and platelet counts (p less than 0.02); and a substantial decrease in reticulocyte counts (p less than 0.05). The common post splenectomy complications were chest infection and a brief episode of pyrexia, but without undue morbidity. The study establishes a definite place for splenectomy in a selected population of children with sickle cell disease and thalassemia.

Gaucher disease: fate of the splenic remnant after partial splenectomy--a case of rapid enlargement

In Gaucher disease, partial splenectomy has been suggested for alleviating the complications of splenomegaly as well as for avoiding the immunologic compromise and potential acceleration of bony and hepatic involvement that may follow total splenic resection. However, the fate of the splenic remnant has been reported rarely. A subtotal splenectomy (85%) was performed in a 19-month-old girl with rapidly progressing Gaucher disease and massive splenomegaly (12% of body weight). Within 3 months, the splenic remnant had increased four-fold in size. Previous reports indicated only three Gaucher patients had significant enlargement of the splenic remnant after partial splenectomy. These findings indicate that splenomegaly may recur rapidly in Gaucher disease following partial splenectomy.

Traumatic rupture of the spleen in the rural tropics. A personal experience and suggestions for its management

Five patients with traumatic rupture of the spleen were treated in a rural 67-bed mission hospital during a one-year period. All had symptoms and signs of major intra-abdominal haemorrhage and were subjected to laparotomy. All five had splenectomy performed, as none were considered suitable for splenic preservation. The problems associated with splenic trauma in the tropics are discussed and suggestions made for its management.

Effect of splenectomy on gram-negative bacterial clearance in the presence and absence of sepsis

Severe sepsis leads to depression of the reticulo-endothelial system (RES) with delayed bloodstream clearance of particulate matter and bacteria. Splenectomy results in increased susceptibility to infection with encapsulated organisms but its effect on the resistance to postoperative Gram-negative infection has been little studied. We have investigated the effect of splenectomy on RES function by measurement of plasma fibronectin concentrations and bacterial clearance in the presence and absence of sepsis. In experiment 1, rabbits underwent splenectomy (n = 8) or laparotomy only (n = 8) 4 weeks before a second laparotomy. In experiment 2, animals had either splenectomy (n = 8) or laparotomy only (n = 8) followed 4 weeks later by devascularization of the appendix (sepsis). Plasma fibronectin concentrations and the blood clearance and organ distribution of an intravenous injection of 75Se-labelled viable Escherichia coli (2-3 X 10(8) colony forming units (c.f.u.] were measured 24 h after the second operation. Splenectomy resulted in: (1) a persistent reduction in plasma fibronectin concentration in the presence and absence of sepsis, and (2) a delay in the bloodstream clearance with reduced hepatic (Kupffer cell) uptake of E. coli which was exaggerated in the septic splenectomized animal. It is concluded that the spleen may be important for Gram-negative bacterial clearance, possibly related to its influence on plasma fibronectin concentration and Kupffer cell function.

Splenic reticuloendothelial function after splenectomy, spleen repair, and spleen autotransplantation

Overwhelming infection after splenectomy remains a problem despite the introduction of vaccine and antimicrobial prophylaxis. To evaluate prospectively various procedures proposed for salvage of the spleen, we measured reticuloendothelial function for two to five years in 51 patients who had initially presented with abdominal trauma and suspected splenic rupture. The mean percentage of pocked erythrocytes and the clearance of antibody-coated autologous erythrocytes in 8 patients who had splenic repair and in 6 who had partial splenectomy were the same as in 11 controls with intraabdominal injury that did not involve the spleen. The mean percentage of pocked erythrocytes remained significantly elevated in 19 patients who had undergone total splenectomy without autotransplantation of splenic tissue. One of seven patients who underwent splenic autotransplantation had a normal level of pocked erythrocytes 18 months after surgery, and a second patient had only a slight elevation at 24 months. The mean (+/- SEM) half-time clearance of labeled erythrocytes was significantly longer in the group that had total splenectomy without autotransplantation (421.1 +/- 74.5 hours) than in the autotransplantation group (91.6 +/- 20.0) or in the controls (5.4 +/- 2.0). We conclude that reticuloendothelial function was better preserved after partial splenectomy and splenic repair than after splenic autotransplantation, but that autotransplantation was superior to total splenectomy and appeared to be safe. Splenic autotransplantation deserves further study in patients who have had splenic trauma when other surgical maneuvers to save the spleen are not possible.

Partial splenectomy for Gaucher's disease

Gaucher's disease is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by deficiency of beta glucocerebrosidase, resulting in an accumulation of glucocerebroside in the reticuloendothelial system. These patients have massive splenomegaly and bone pain, but may have normal life expectancy. Traditionally, splenectomy has been used to treat hypersplenism, but may be associated with a high incidence of postsplenectomy sepsis and accelerated hepatic and bone lipid deposition. Two children are reported who had partial splenectomy for symptoms of Gaucher's disease. Both patients had laboratory evidence of hypersplenism. A 90% splenectomy was performed, and the residual splenic fragment was wrapped in Vicryl mesh. Both patients are currently asymptomatic with normal hematologic parameters. Postoperative radionuclide scans demonstrate increase in the size of the residual splenic fragment. Partial splenectomy may benefit patients with Gaucher's disease, but long-term follow-up care is necessary.

Splenic function: physiology and splenic hypofunction

A wide variety of disorders can result in diminished splenic function. The pathophysiology appears to be clearly defined in some instances, such as congenital asplenia and disorders of splenic vascular obstruction or congestion. In others, such as the autoimmune and GI disorders, the mechanism remains poorly defined. Further research is needed. The hyposplenia which occurs in many of these disorders has been associated with an increased risk of life-threatening, overwhelming bacterial sepsis. In other instances, this complication has not been reported. This certainly should not be interpreted to mean that it cannot occur. The risk of septicemia in hyposplenic disorders is rarely above 10 to 15%. In disorders with minimal inhibition of splenic function, the incidence of sepsis would presumably be less than the 1.5% incidence following surgical splenectomy for trauma. Considering these data, a very large number of patients would have to become asplenic before it would be likely that one would develop sepsis. Furthermore, the lack of awareness of the possibility of hyposplenia-related sepsis in many of these disorders may cause such occurrences to go unrecognized. Finally, since the risk of sepsis is probably less in hyposplenic adults as compared to children, studies on adults may underestimate the incidence of this complication in children. Many of the disorders reported to cause hyposplenia in adults have not been noted to do so in children. In instances such as celiac disease, it may take many years for the complication to manifest so that it would be unlikely for a child to manifest hyposplenia during childhood. However, in other instances, not enough children have been studied to be confident that the hyposplenia and its associated risk of sepsis are not complications that occur in children. Hyposplenia-related bacterial septicemia is a catastrophic complication. If a patient develops a disorder that is potentially associated with hyposplenia, the patient should be observed for signs of asplenia in the peripheral blood. If the technique is available, quantitation of red cell pits should be performed. If not, other studies of splenic function such as radionuclide scans should be considered, depending on the incidence of hyposplenia in that particular disorder. If evidence of asplenia develops, pneumococcal vaccine should be administered, penicillin prophylaxis should be considered, significant febrile episodes should be managed aggressively, and probably most importantly, the patient and family should be carefully educated about this complication. Most deaths from hyposplenia-related septicemia are preventable.

[Assessment following total or partial splenic loss]

Expert opinion after splenectomy: In splenectomized patients after trauma the risk of infection is up to 60 times increased. The incidence of sepsis amounts to 1.05, mortality to 0.5%. Spleen-preserving surgery guarantees an immunocompetence only if at least 30% of the spleen is preserved. The professional performance of people having undergone splenectomy is restricted by 30% during the first year ("MdE" of 30%), later by 10% if additional complications occur.