Laparoscopic vs open splenectomy in the management of hematologic diseases

Association of Laparoscopic Approach With Improved Short-Term Outcomes in Patients With Hematologic Malignancy Undergoing Splenectomy

BACKGROUND

Patients with hematologic malignancies undergo splenectomy for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Although minimally invasive surgery continues to be increasingly utilized for a variety of abdominal operations, no large-scale data has compared the postoperative outcomes for laparoscopic vs open splenectomy in patients with hematologic malignancy.

METHODS

Patients with a diagnosis of hematologic malignancy who underwent laparoscopic and open splenectomy between 2015 and 2020 were queried using the ACS-NSQIP database. 30-day outcomes of laparoscopic vs open splenectomy were compared.

RESULTS

Out of 430 patients included in the study, 52.6% were male, with a mean age of 63.4 ± 13.1 years. 233 patients (54.2%) underwent laparoscopic splenectomy. On bivariate analysis, laparoscopic surgery was associated with lower rates of 30-day mortality [2.1% vs 11.7% (P < .001)] and morbidity [9.0% vs 24.4% (P < .001)]. On multivariate regression, elective operations (OR .255, 95%CI: 0.084-.778, P = .016) and laparoscopic surgery (OR .239, 95%CI: 0.075-.760, P = .015) were independently associated with lower mortality, while history of metastatic cancer (OR 3.331, 95%CI: 1.144-9.699, P = .027) was associated with higher mortality. Laparoscopic surgery (OR .401, 95%CI: 0.209-.770, P = .006) and steroid use (OR 2.714, 95%CI: 1.279-5.757, P = .009) were the only two factors independently associated with 30-day morbidity. Laparoscopic surgery was also associated with shorter hospital length of stay (median 3 [IQR:3] vs 6 [IQR:7] days).

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic splenectomy was associated with lower 30-day mortality and morbidity, and shorter length of stay in patients with hematologic malignancies. These data suggest that laparoscopic approach, when feasible, may be preferred for splenectomy in this patient population.

Clinical observation and risk assessment after splenectomy in hepatolenticular degeneration patients associated with hypersplenism

Background

Both hepatolenticular degeneration (HLD) and viral hepatitis B (HBV) can cause hypersplenism, but whether splenectomy is needed or can be performed in HLD patients associated with hypersplenism is still controversial. At present, HLD combined with hypersplenism has not been listed as the indication of splenectomy.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the efficacy, risks, and postoperative complications of splenectomy in HLD patients associated with hypersplenism.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 180 HLD patients with hypersplenism who underwent splenectomy in the Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, from January 2001 to December 2015. To evaluate the efficacy of splenectomy, the hemogram of white blood cells (WBC), red blood cells (RBC), platelets (PLT), and the liver function indexes including alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and total bilirubin were recorded before surgery and 1, 3, 5, 7, and 14 days after surgery. In addition, the clinical data of 142 HBV patients with hypersplenism who underwent splenectomy over the same period were also recorded and compared with that of HLD patients. In particular, aiming to assess the risks of splenectomy in HLD, we also compared postoperative complications and 36-month mortality between the two groups.

Result

The level of WBC, RBC, and PLT were all elevated after splenectomy in both the HLD group and the HBV group. However, there was no significant difference in the variation of hemogram after splenectomy between the two groups (P > 0.05). Similarly, the variation of liver function indexes showed no statistical difference between the two groups. In terms of the incidence of postoperative complications including abdominal bleeding, pancreatic leakage, portal vein thrombosis treatment, incision infection, lung infection, and 36-month mortality, there were no significant differences between the two groups.

Conclusion

After splenectomy, the hemogram as well as liver function in the HLD group improved a lot and showed a consistent tendency with that in the HBV group. Meanwhile, compared to the HBV group, there was no significant difference in the incidence of postoperative complications in the HLD group. All these results indicate that splenectomy in HLD patients combined with hypersplenism is completely feasible and effective.

Outcome of Laparoscopic Splenectomy for Malignant Hematologic Diseases

Aim

The role of laparoscopic splenectomy in the treatment of hematological diseases is still controversial. The aim of this study was to assess whether the benign or malignant nature of hematological diseases may influence the outcome of laparoscopic splenectomy.

Patients and methods

Between August 1997 and March 2002, 63 unselected patients with hematologic diseases underwent a laparoscopic splenectomy. Patients were divided into two groups according to the benign (Group A, 38 patients) or malignant (Group B, 25 patients) nature of the hematological diseases.

Results

Patients in group B were significantly (a) older, (b) had larger spleens that more frequently needed accessory incisions for specimen retrieval, (c) had greater transfusion requirements, and (d) were fed later than patients in group A. There were no statistically significant differences among the two groups in terms of (a) body-mass index, (b) operative time, (c) conversion rate, (d) blood loss, (e) pain medication requirements, and (f) hospital stay. Two postoperative deaths occurred among patients in group B, but none of them was related to surgery.

Conclusions

The results of the study showed that: a) the nature of the disease does not influence the outcome of laparoscopic splenectomy, b) the size of the spleen might increase the risk of conversion, but it is no longer a contraindication to laparoscopic splenectomy, and c) laparoscopic splenectomy can be effectively performed in the treatment of malignant hematologic diseases.

Current concepts of laparoscopic splenectomy in elective patients

Formerly, open splenectomy represented the conventional surgical treatment for many hematologic diseases. Currently, thanks to permanent technical development and improved skills, also laparoscopic splenectomy (LS) has become a recognized procedure in the treatment of spleen diseases, even in case of splenomegaly. A systematic review was performed with the aim of recalling the proved concepts of this surgical treatment and to browse new devices and techniques and their impact on the surgical outcome. The literature search was initially conducted in PubMed by entering general queries related to LS. The record identified through PubMed searching (n = 1599) was then screened by applying several criteria (study published in English from 1991 to 2013 with abstract available, by excluding systematic/non-systematic reviews, meta-analysis, practice guidelines, case reports, and study involving animals). The articles assessed for eligibility (n = 160) were primarily evaluated by excluding studies that did not report operative time and conversion to open surgery. For articles that treated multiport LS we included only clinical trials with patients > 20. The studies included in qualitative synthesis were 23. The search strategy carried out in PubMed does not allow to obtain an overview of the items returned by the main queries. With this aim we replicated the search in the Web of Science^TM database, only including the studies published in English in the period 1991-2013 with no other filter/selection criteria. The full records (n = 1141) and cited references returned by Web of Science^TM were analyzed with the visualization of similarities (VOS) mapping technique. Maps of title/abstract text corpus and bibliographic coupling of authors obtained by applying the VOS approach were presented. If in normal-size or moderately enlarged spleens the laparoscopic approach is unquestionable, in massive splenomegaly the optimal technique remain to be determined. In this setting, prospective randomized trials to compare open vs LS are needed. Between the new techniques of LS the robotic single port splenectomy has the ability to join all the positive aspects of both techniques. Data about this topic are too initial and need to be confirmed with further studies.

Laparoscopic Versus Open Splenectomy for Portal Hypertension

Background. Laparoscopic splenectomy has become the gold-standard procedure for normal to moderately enlarged spleens. However, the safety of laparoscopic splenectomy for patients with portal hypertension remains controversial. We carried out this systematic review to identify the feasibility and safety of laparoscopic splenectomy in treating portal hypertension. Data sources. A systematic search for comparative studies that compared laparoscopic splenectomy with open splenectomy for portal hypertension was carried out. Studies were independently reviewed for quality, inclusion and exclusion criteria, demographic characteristics, and perioperative outcomes. Conclusion. Although laparoscopic splenectomy is associated with longer operating time, it offers advantages over the open procedure in terms of less blood loss, lower operative complications, earlier resumption of oral intake, and shorter posthospital stay. Therefore, laparoscopic splenectomy is a safe and feasible intervention for portal hypertension.

[Comparison of laparoscopic and open splenectomy]

INTRODUCTION

Conventional operative techniques are gradually being replaced by minimally invasive surgical methods in the surgery of the spleen. We summarized our 10-year-experience after the introduction of laparoscopic splenectomy at the University of Szeged, Department of Surgery, comparing open and minimally invasive techniques.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

Between 1st January 2002 and 1st December 2011 we performed 141 splenectomies of which 17 were acute operations. Of the 124 elective procedures 54 were laparoscopic and 70 open operations. In 40 cases (open procedures) splenectomy was part of multivisceral surgery which were excluded from the analysis. In this retrospective analysis a comparison of laparoscopic and open elective technique was carried out.

RESULTS

Average operating time of laparoscopic procedures was slightly longer than that of open technique (133 vs. 122 minutes, p = 0.074). After the learning period, duration of laparoscopic procedures became shorter (first five years: 147 min., second five years: 118 min, p = 0.003), larger spleens were removed (220 vs. 450 grams, p = 0.063) and conversion rate became lower. In cases of laparoscopic procedures fewer reoperations needed to be performed (1.5% vs. 6%, p = 0.718), bowel motility recovered earlier (2 vs. 3 days, p = 0.002) and hospital stay was shorter (5 vs. 8 days, p ≤ 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Our study proves that laparoscopic splenectomy is a safe method with many advantages. Our results correlate with data of international publications.

A meta-analysis of perioperative outcomes of laparoscopic splenectomy for hematological disorders

BACKGROUND

Due to changes in surgical trends, laparoscopic splenectomy (LS) has become the standard approach for most splenectomies performed for hematological disorders, barring any contraindications. The perioperative outcomes of LS for this indication have not been updated for several years. Controversy still surrounds whether LS should be performed for massive splenomegaly. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the perioperative outcomes of laparoscopic splenectomy for hematological disorders.

METHODS

Literature searches were conducted to identify studies comparing the perioperative outcomes of the laparoscopic and open approaches for hematological disorders. The results were pooled by using standard meta-analysis methods.

RESULTS

Thirty-eight studies with a total of 2,914 patients comparing LS to open splenectomy (OS) for hematological disorders were identified. Mortality was low in both groups. The pooled complications of the LS group were significantly fewer than those of the OS group (-0.11, p < 0.001), and the NNT was 9 (95 % confidence interval, 6-20). For massive spleens, a similar result was observed (-0.12, p = 0.009). Accessory spleen resection and blood loss also were comparable between the two approaches. Additionally, LS was associated with longer operative times (57.38 min, p < 0.00001) and shorter hospital stays (2.48 days, p < 0.00001).

CONCLUSIONS

LS is preferred compared to OS, based on lower complication rates and better handling of comorbid conditions. LS is associated with shorter hospital stays but longer operative times. We conclude that LS may be considered an acceptable option even in cases of a massive spleen. To strengthen the clinical evidence, more high-quality clinical trials on different issues are necessary.

Management of postoperative complications following splenectomy

Complications of post-splenectomy, especially intra-abdominal hemorrhage can be fatal, with delayed or inadequate treatment having a high mortality rate. The objective of this study was to investigate the cause, prompt diagnosis, and outcome of the fatal complications after splenectomy with a focus on early diagnosis and management of hemorrhage after splenectomy. The medical files of patients who underwent splenectomy between January 1990 and March 2011 were reviewed retrospectively. The cause, characteristics, management, and outcome in patients with post-splenectomy hemorrhage were analyzed. Fourteen of 604 patients (1.19%) undergoing splenectomy had intraperitoneal hemorrhage: reoperation was performed in 13 patients, and 3 patients died after reoperation, giving the hospital a mortality rate of 21.43%; whereas, 590 of 604 patients (98%) had no hemorrhage following splenectomy, and the mortality rate (0.34%) in this group was significantly lower (P < 0.001). The complications following splenectomy, including pneumonia pancreatitis, gastric fistula, gastric flatulence, and thrombocytosis, in patients with postoperative hemorrhage were significantly higher than those without hemorrhage (P < 0.001). According to the reasons for splenectomy, 14 patients with post-splenectomy hemorrhage were grouped into two groups: splenic trauma (n = 9, group I) and portal hypertension (n = 5, group II). The median interval between splenectomy and diagnosis of hemorrhage was 15.5 hours (range, 7.25-19.5 hours). No differences were found between groups I and II in terms of incidence of postoperative hemorrhage, time of hemorrhage after splenectomy, volume of hemorrhage, and mortality of hemorrhage, except transfusion. Intra-abdominal hemorrhage after splenectomy is associated with higher hospital mortality rate and complications. Early massive intraperitoneal hemorrhage is often preceded by earlier sentinel bleeding; careful clinical inquiry and ultrasonography are the mainstays of early diagnosis.

Anterior versus posterolateral approach for total laparoscopic splenectomy: a comparative study

OBJECTIVE

Although the anterior approach is normally used for elective laparoscopic splenectomy (LS), the posterolateral approach may be superior. We have retrospectively compared the effectiveness and safety of these approaches in patients with non-severe splenomegaly scheduled for elective total LS.

METHODS

Patients with surgical spleen disorders scheduled for elective LS between March 2005 and June 2011 underwent laparoscopic splenic mobilization via the posterolateral or anterior approach. Main outcome measures included operation time, intraoperative blood loss, frequency of postoperative pancreatic leakage, and length of hospital stay.

RESULTS

During the study period, 203 patients underwent LS, 58 (28.6%) via the posterolateral and 145 (71.4%) via the anterior approach. Three patients (1.5%) required conversion to laparotomy due to extensive perisplenic adhesions. The posterolateral approach was associated with significantly shorter operation time (65.0 ± 12.3 min vs. 95.0 ± 21.3 min, P < 0.01), reduced intraoperative blood loss (200.0 ± 23.4 mL vs. 350.0 ± 45.2 mL, P < 0.01), and shorter hospital stay (5.0 ± 2.0 d vs. 9.0 ± 3.0 d, P < 0.01) than the anterior approach. The frequency of pancreatic leakage was slightly lower in patients undergoing LS via the posterolateral than the anterior approach (0.0% vs. 3.4%, P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The posterolateral approach is more effective and safer than the anterior approach in patients without severe splenomegaly (< 30 cm).

Management of postoperative complications following splenectomy

Complications of post-splenectomy, especially intra-abdominal hemorrhage can be fatal, with delayed or inadequate treatment having a high mortality rate. The objective of this study was to investigate the cause, prompt diagnosis, and outcome of the fatal complications after splenectomy with a focus on early diagnosis and management of hemorrhage after splenectomy. The medical files of patients who underwent splenectomy between January 1990 and March 2011 were reviewed retrospectively. The cause, characteristics, management, and outcome in patients with post-splenectomy hemorrhage were analyzed. Fourteen of 604 patients (1.19%) undergoing splenectomy had intraperitoneal hemorrhage: reoperation was performed in 13 patients, and 3 patients died after reoperation, giving the hospital a mortality rate of 21.43%; whereas, 590 of 604 patients (98%) had no hemorrhage following splenectomy, and the mortality rate (0.34%) in this group was significantly lower (P < 0.001). The complications following splenectomy, including pneumonia pancreatitis, gastric fistula, gastric flatulence, and thrombocytosis, in patients with postoperative hemorrhage were significantly higher than those without hemorrhage (P < 0.001). According to the reasons for splenectomy, 14 patients with post-splenectomy hemorrhage were grouped into two groups: splenic trauma (n = 9, group I) and portal hypertension (n = 5, group II). The median interval between splenectomy and diagnosis of hemorrhage was 15.5 hours (range, 7.25-19.5 hours). No differences were found between groups I and II in terms of incidence of postoperative hemorrhage, time of hemorrhage after splenectomy, volume of hemorrhage, and mortality of hemorrhage, except transfusion. Intra-abdominal hemorrhage after splenectomy is associated with higher hospital mortality rate and complications. Early massive intraperitoneal hemorrhage is often preceded by earlier sentinel bleeding; careful clinical inquiry and ultrasonography are the mainstays of early diagnosis.

Outcomes of laparoscopic versus open splenectomy

Purpose

Laparoscopic techniques have gained wide clinical acceptance in surgical practice today. The laparoscopic approach has been established as the technique of choice for elective splenectomies performed on normal sized spleens. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcome of patients undergoing laparoscopic splenectomy (LS) at the TOBB University of Economics and Technology (ETU) Hospital and Kecioren Training and Research Hospital.

Methods

One hundred and thirty-five patients underwent splenectomy between January 2000 and July 2010. For comparison, the records of 130 patients undergoing splenectomy were evaluated for age, gender, hospital stay, time to start of diet, conversion rate, operation time and wound infection.

Results

Mean operation time means the time interval between surgeon commencing operation to end of operation. Mean operation time in patients treated by LS was 132 minutes and 121 minutes in open splenectomy (OS). Mean hospital stay was 5.65 days in patients undergoing LS and starting of diet was 1.21 days. In patients treated by OS, mean hospital stay was 9.17 days, starting of diet was 2.37 days. Four patients were converted to open surgery. Conversion rate was 6.4 percent. In the early post operative period (within 10 days of surgery) 9.2%, LS group had lower incidences of wound infection rate after surgery than OS group (4.8%, 7.4%, respectively; P = 0.06).

Conclusion

LS is a safe and effective alternative to OS for treatment of splenic diseases in patients of all ages.

Rigid and flexible endoscopic rendezvous in spatium peritonealis may be an effective tactic for laparoscopic megasplenectomy: significant implications for pure natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery

BACKGROUND

We recently experienced 10 patients with cirrhosis who underwent laparoscopic splenectomy. A portion of these patients underwent dissection with a flexible endoscope in the peritoneal cavity. This pilot study mainly focused on the technical aspects and immediate results.

METHODS

From November 2009 to September 2010, 10 patients with cirrhosis and hypersplenism were entered into this pilot study. They were indicated to undergo laparoscopic splenectomy to treat portal hypertension and to facilitate initiation and completion of either interferon therapy for liver cirrhosis or anticancer therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma. To dissect the upper end of the gastrosplenic ligament and the marginal region between the left diaphragm and upper pole of the spleen, a flexible single-channel endoscope was introduced into the peritoneal cavity simultaneously with the use of a rigid laparoscope. Dissection with the flexible endoscope in the peritoneal cavity was performed using an insulation-tipped electrosurgical knife through the channel of the flexible endoscope.

RESULTS

The flexible endoscope offered a magnified operative view, a water-jet lens cleaner, and a powerful lavage and suction capability. The upper end of the gastrosplenic ligament and the marginal region between the left diaphragm and upper pole of the spleen were easily seen, and dissection of these critical regions was smoothly conducted with articulation of the tip of the flexible endoscope, even in patients with splenomegaly. No patient experienced major intraoperative complications or required conversion to open surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Dissection with a flexible endoscope in the peritoneal cavity may be an effective tactic for laparoscopic megasplenectomy, and significant implications for pure natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery have been raised. Although future randomized controlled prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings, surgeons might find this to be a typical example of an appropriate strategy for high-risk patients.

Robot-assisted partial and total splenectomy

BACKGROUND

The interest of robotics in performing partial and total splenectomy is poorly reported so far. We report herein our experience.

METHODS

From November 2001 to November 2009, 24 consecutive robotic splenectomies were performed by the same surgeon. All data were prospectively collected and reviewed retrospectively.

RESULTS

Twelve men and 12 women with a median age of 48 years underwent a robotic splenectomy, three of which were partial splenectomies. The indications were: ABO incompatibility for kidney transplantation (n = 7), haematological disease (n = 7) and miscellaneous pathologies (n = 10). Mean operative time was 199 ± 65 min. Median blood loss was 75 (range 5-300) ml. There was one intraoperative complication and two conversions. The postoperative morbidity was 8.3% with no mortality. Median hospital stay was 5.5 days.

CONCLUSIONS

This series reports the safety and feasibility of robotic partial and total splenectomy. Its use as an alternative to the standard laparoscopic approach is particularly beneficial in more challenging cases.

Laparoscopic splenectomy: conventional versus robotic approach--a comparative study

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic splenectomy is accepted as a safe approach in the surgical treatment of blood disorders worldwide. Compared with the laparotomic technique, it is associated with a lower risk of intraoperative bleeding, less postoperative pain, and faster discharge times. The advent of robotic surgery (RS) has changed the concept of minimally invasive surgery because, in addition to allowing a three-dimensional view, it permits greater freedom of movement and higher levels of accuracy than laparoscopic surgery (LS). The aim of this study was to comparatively evaluate whether RS presents advantages over LS in spleen surgery.

METHODS

In two Surgical Units with experience in laparoscopic splenectomy, over a 7-year period, two groups of 45 patients underwent LS and RS. The two groups were well matched for demographic characteristics, indications, and spleen size.

RESULTS

No statistically significant differences were found regarding intraoperative blood loss, conversion rate to laparotomy, food intake, drain removal, postoperative complications, and median time to discharge. On the contrary, statistically increased differences were observed in median operative time and costs. In both groups, the transfusion and mortality rate was 0%. At the 6-month follow-up no surgical complications were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Although RS offers a three-dimensional view, greater freedom of movement, and higher levels of accuracy, it is associated with longer operative times and higher costs. It can consequently be concluded that with the intrinsic limits of the study design used, at the current time, RS does not have any significant advantage over LS in splenectomy.

Concomitant laparoscopic splenectomy and cholecystectomy

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility and outcomes of concomitant laparoscopic treatment for coexisting spleen and gallbladder diseases.

METHODS

Between March 1997 and August 2009, 9 patients underwent concomitant laparoscopic splenectomy and cholecystectomy. Indications for laparoscopic splenectomy included hereditary spherocytosis (4 patients), splenic artery aneurysm (2), hypersplenism (2), and Evans syndrome (1).

RESULTS

The median operating time and the blood loss were 165 minutes (range: 70 to 300 min) and 36 mL (range: 10 to 274 mL). The median resected splenic weight was 256 g (range: 137 to 820 g). No patient required conversion to an open procedure. Portal system thrombosis occurred in 2 patients. The median length of hospital stay was 9 days (range: 3 to 15 d).

CONCLUSION

With increasing institutional experience, concomitant laparoscopic splenectomy and cholecystectomy is a safe and feasible procedure and may be considered for coexisting spleen and gallbladder diseases.

[Laparoscopic splenectomy: indications, techniques, outcomes]

Laparoscopic splenectomy (LS) has become the standard approach to splenectomy for benign and malignant hematologic diseases despite a paucity of high-level evidence. The procedure requires expertise in laparoscopic surgical techniques and meticulous dissection of the spleen. Management should include a preoperative radiologic assessment to measure splenic volume and to detect the presence of accessory splenic tissue; the patient should undergo preoperative vaccination against meningococcal, pneumococcal, and Haemophilus influenzae type B infections. Prophylactic antibiotics are used in the perioperative period as well as prophylactic anticoagulation therapy which may be continued long-term in high-risk patients. LS is associated with a low morbidity and mortality; when compared to laparotomy, it reduces the length of hospital stay and improves the quality of life by decreasing postoperative ileus and pain. There are a variety of laparoscopic approaches; the hand-assisted technique and newer coagulating devices have facilitated the operative technique leading to increasing acceptance of laparoscopy as the preferred approach - even in patients with malignant hematologic disease and/or massive splenomegaly.

Laparoscopic versus open splenectomy in dogs

In the last few years, the use of laparoscopy in veterinary medicine has expanded and consequently so was the need for studies that establish the advantages, disadvantages and possible complications of each procedure. The purpose of the current study was to describe a laparoscopic splenectomy technique and the alterations due to this access, and compare it to the open procedure in dogs. A total of 15 healthy female mongrel dogs were used, with mean weight of 17.4±2.5kg. The animals were distributed into three groups: Group IA of open splenectomy (laparotomy) using double ligation of the vessels of the splenic hilum with poliglicolic acid, Group IB of open splenectomy (laparotomy) with bipolar electrocoagulation of the splenic hilum, and Group II of laparoscopic access with bipolar electrocoagulation of the splenic hilum. Operative time, blood loss, size of incisions, complications during and after surgery were evaluated. Other parameters included pain scores, white blood cell (WBC) counts and postoperative serum concentrations of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), creatine kinase (CK), C-reactive protein (CRP), glucose and cortisol. No differences were found in the evaluation of parameters between both open splenectomy techniques employed. Laparoscopic access presented significant differences (p<0,05) when compared with open surgery: Longer operative time, smaller abdominal access, decrease in blood loss, lower concentrations of CRP, higher levels of CK and ALP, and lower scores in the pain scale. Laparoscopic surgery showed fewer complications of the surgical wound. No significant differences were observed between groups in the postoperative temperature, WBC, ALT, cortisol and glucose concentrations. In conclusion, the laparoscopic technique is useful for splenectomy in dogs, being advantageous in terms of blood loss, surgical stress and surgical wounds. However, it expends more operative time and causes transitory increase in hepatic and muscular enzymes.

Technical standardization of laparoscopic splenectomy harmonized with hand-assisted laparoscopic surgery for patients with liver cirrhosis and hypersplenism

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

The aims of this study were to standardize the techniques of laparoscopic splenectomy (LS) to improve safety in liver cirrhosis patients with portal hypertension.

METHODS

From 1993 to 2008, 265 cirrhotic patients underwent LS. Child-Pugh class was A in 112 patients, B in 124, and C in 29. Since January 2005, we have adopted the standardized LS including the following three points: hand-assisted laparoscopic surgery (HALS) should be performed in patients with splenomegaly (> or =1,000 mL), perisplenic collateral vessels, or Child-Pugh score 9 or more; complete division and sufficient elevation of the upper pole of the spleen should be performed before the splenic hilar division; and when surgeons feel the division of the upper pole of the spleen is too difficult, conversion to HALS should be performed.

RESULTS

There were no deaths related to LS in this study. After the standardization, conversion to open surgery significantly reduced from 11 (10.3%) of 106 to 3 (1.9%) of 159 patients (P < 0.05). The average operation time and blood loss significantly reduced from 259 to 234 min (P < 0.01) and from 506 to 171 g (P < 0.01), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

With the technical standardization, LS becomes a feasible and safe approach in the setting of liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension.

Modified laparoscopic splenectomy: a beneficial technique for ABO-incompatible living donor renal transplantation candidates on hemodialysis

Advances in laparoscopy have enabled minimally invasive surgical treatment of splenic diseases. Even with these advances, laparoscopic splenectomy in patients on dialysis can be difficult because of tissue fragility due to the underlying renal disease. We report a safe surgical technique for laparoscopic splenectomy in patients on maintenance dialysis that is suitable for use before ABO-incompatible living donor renal transplantation (LDRTx). Between June 1972 and December 2006, a total of 800 patients underwent LDRTx in our department, including 82 patients who underwent ABO-incompatible LDRTx. Between April 2001 and December 2006 we performed laparoscopic splenectomy in 48 hemodialysis patients as a pretreatment before ABO-incompatible LDRTx. Under general anesthesia the operation was performed using a new technique, referred to as the "splenic hilum lump method." We evaluated the surgical outcomes, such as the operative time, amount of blood loss, efficacy, and complications. The mean operative time was 131.6 +/- 38.4 min and mean blood loss was 126 +/- 395 mL. Blood transfusion was required in three patients. All cases had satisfactory kidney function after LDRTx and none developed kidney graft failure due to acute rejection. Almost all patients could walk the day after laparoscopic splenectomy and were satisfied with the cosmetic appearance of the scar after wound healing. The surgical technique we report here can be safely performed on patients with renal failure who require caution because of tissue fragility. Laparoscopic splenectomy is a safe, effective and less invasive operative procedure as a pretreatment for ABO-incompatible LDRTx.

Laparoscopic splenectomy: the clinical practice guidelines of the European Association for Endoscopic Surgery (EAES)

BACKGROUND

Although laparoscopic splenectomy (LS) has become the standard approach for most splenectomy cases, some areas still remain controversial. To date, the indications that preclude laparoscopic splenectomy are not clearly defined. In view of this, the European Association for Endoscopic Surgery (EAES) has developed clinical practice guidelines for LS.

METHODS

An international expert panel was invited to appraise the current literature and to develop evidence-based recommendations. A consensus development conference using a nominal group process convened in May 2007. Its recommendations were presented at the annual EAES congress in Athens, Greece, on 5 July 2007 for discussion and further input. After a further Delphi process between the experts, the final recommendations were agreed upon.

RESULTS

Laparoscopic splenectomy is indicated for most benign and malignant hematologic diseases independently of the patient's age and body weight. Preoperative investigation is recommended for obtaining information on spleen size and volume as well as the presence of accessory splenic tissue. Preoperative vaccination against meningococcal, pneumococcal, and Haemophilus influenzae type B infections is recommended in elective cases. Perioperative anticoagulant prophylaxis with subcutaneous heparin should be administered to all patients and prolonged anticoagulant prophylaxis to high-risk patients. The choice of approach (supine [anterior], semilateral or lateral) is left to the surgeon's preference and concomitant conditions. In cases of massive splenomegaly, the hand-assisted technique should be considered to avoid conversion to open surgery and to reduce complication rates. The expert panel still considered portal hypertension and major medical comorbidities as contraindications to LS.

CONCLUSION

Despite a lack of level 1 evidence, LS is a safe and advantageous procedure in experienced hands that has displaced open surgery for almost all indications. To support the clinical evidence, further randomized controlled trials on different issues are mandatory.

Endoscopic treatment of external pancreatic fistulas: when draining the main pancreatic duct is not enough

OBJECTIVES

Transpapillary drainage of the main pancreatic duct (MPD) has been proposed for the treatment of external pancreatic fistulas (EPF) but may not suffice to treat complex cases. The aim of the present study was to explore the efficacy of various endoscopic or combined percutaneous and endoscopic techniques in the treatment of EPFs.

METHODS

Sixteen patients presenting with EPFs were treated in our department. The techniques applied and patients' clinical outcome are described.

RESULTS

All but three patients underwent transpapillary MPD drainage by pancreatic sphincterotomy (N = 13). Additional endoscopic procedures performed were: (a) pancreatic fluid collection (PFC) drainage (N = 5), (b) transmural drainage between the fistula path and the gastrointestinal (GI) tract (N = 5), and (c) endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided pancreaticoduodenostomy because of complete pancreatic duct rupture (N = 1). Fistula closure was achieved in all patients except one, who required surgery. During a median follow-up period of 18 months (range 6-52) three patients had fistula recurrence, and two, PFC recurrence. Both conditions were cured successfully by repeated endoscopic therapy. All recurrences occurred within 3 months of initial successful treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Combined endoscopic and percutaneous treatment appears to be safe and effective for the management of complex cases of EPFs.

Laparoscopic versus open splenectomy in patients with beta thalassemia major

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic splenectomy is considered the standard of care for the removal of the spleen in benign diseases. There are not sufficient data for the routine application of this technique in patients with beta thalassemia major.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-eight consecutive beta thalassemia major patients who underwent elective splenectomy were randomized for open and laparoscopic splenectomy. Patient demographics, operative time, intraoperative and postoperative complications, conversion rate, transfusions, and length of stay were recorded.

RESULTS

There was no mortality in this series. There was no difference in complication rates between the two groups. Operative time was markedly increased in the group treated laparoscopically, as was the need for blood transfusions. Median hospital stay was decreased in the laparoscopic group (5 days) compared to the open group (6.5 days).

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic splenectomy in patients with beta thalassemia major is feasible; however, it is more time consuming and bleeding occurs more often.

Laparoscopic gastric bypass for gastric outlet obstruction is associated with smoother, faster recovery and shorter hospital stay compared with open surgery

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Laparoscopic gastric bypass for relief of gastric outlet obstruction (GOO) is feasible and safe. However, comparative data to confirm the benefits of the laparoscopic approach remain scarce.

METHODS

Between 1998 and 2003, 26 patients underwent 15 laparoscopic (surgeon A) and 12 open (surgeon B) gastrojejunostomies (GJs) for GOO. The indications for surgery included malignant (n = 17) and benign (n = 10) diseases.

RESULTS

There were no conversions to open surgery in the laparoscopic group, and no operative mortality occurred in either group. The groups were comparable for age, sex, American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) score, frequencies of previous abdominal surgery and of malignant or benign disease, and type of GJ fashioned. There were no differences between the laparoscopic and open groups with regard to the operating time (median, 90 vs 111 min; P = 0.113), and patients receiving intraoperative blood transfusion. However, laparoscopic surgery was associated with significantly shorter durations of postoperative intravenous hydration (60 vs 234 h; P = 0.001), opiate analgesia (49 vs 128 h; P = 0.025), and hospital stay (3 vs 15 days; P = 0.005). Operative morbidity occurred more frequently following open surgery (33% vs 13%; P = 0.219).

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic GJ for the relief of GOO is associated with a smoother and more rapid postoperative recovery and shorter hospital stay compared with open surgery. In experienced hands, the laparoscopic approach to GJ should become the new gold standard.

Laparoscopic splenectomy for hematologic diseases: a preliminary analysis performed on the Italian Registry of Laparoscopic Surgery of the Spleen (IRLSS)

BACKGROUND

The Italian Registry of Laparoscopic Surgery of the Spleen (IRLSS) was developed to provide at the national level an informative tool useful for performing multicenter studies in the field of spleen laparoscopic surgery. In this first study analyzing the IRLSS data, a cohort of patients with hematologic diseases was retrospectively investigated for potential predictive parameters that could affect the outcome of laparoscopic splenectomy.

METHODS

A total of 309 patients who underwent laparoscopic splenectomy for hematologic diseases in 17 Italian centers (between February 1, 1993, and September 30, 2004) were entered in the IRLSS. Their records were analyzed retrospectively by the Student's t-test, chi-square, and logistic regression.

RESULTS

The mean operative time was 141 min (range, 30-420 min). Conversion was necessary in 21 cases (7%), and approximately 1 accessory spleen in 25 patients (9%) was found. The mean spleen weight was 1191 g (range, 85-4,500 g). Perioperative death occurred in two cases (0.6%). No complications were experienced by 253 patients (81.9%), who had a mean hospital stay of 5.4 days (range, 2-30 days). Overall morbidity occurred in 56 patients (18.1%), mainly associated with transient fever (n = 22), pleural effusion (n = 13), and actual or suspected hemorrhage (n = 12), requiring a reintervention for 7 patients. Multivariate analysis found that body mass index (p = 0.024) and clinical indication (p = 0.004) were independent predictors for surgical conversion. The clinical indication was almost significant as an independent predictor for the occurrence of postoperative complication (p = 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

This first study analyzing the IRLSS data shows that laparoscopic splenectomy may represent the gold standard treatment for hematologic diseases with normal-size spleen. The low morbidity and mortality rate suggests that laparoscopic splenectomy can be successfully proposed also for splenomegaly in hematologic malignancies.

Indications for Splenectomy

In the new millennium, indications for splenectomy have expanded. Proper patient selection based on an understanding of the biology of each individual's disease is essential for a favorable outcome. We review the most common diseases for which surgeons may be called on to perform splenectomy and while highlighting potential pitfalls and caveats.

Laparoscopic splenectomy: present status and future perspective

Laparoscopic splenectomy has become widely accepted as the approach of choice for the surgical treatment of benign and malignant hematologic diseases. Advances in technology have led to better outcomes for the procedure, and have allowed surgeons to apply the technique to disease processes that were at one time felt to be contraindications to laparoscopic splenectomy. However, challenges still remain. There is a steep learning curve associated with the procedure. The development of cost-effective laparoscopic simulators to target the skills required for laparoscopic splenectomy and other laparoscopic procedures is essential. The advent of devices which isolate and seal the large blood vessels that surround the spleen have reduced intra-operative bleeding and minimized conversions to open splenectomy. Improvements in optics and instrumentation, as well as robotic technology, will continue to define the frontier of minimally invasive surgery, and further facilitate the acceptance of laparoscopic splenectomy for the treatment of benign and malignant hematologic diseases.

Laparoscopic splenectomy in the elderly: a morbid procedure?

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic splenectomy has emerged as the gold standard for elective splenectomy. Few reports have critically evaluated the results of laparoscopic splenectomy in elderly patients.

METHODS

All laparoscopic splenectomies performed between August 19, 1998 and June 8, 2004 were reviewed retrospectively.

RESULTS

Of 235 splenectomies, 188 were performed for patients younger than age 65 years (group 1), and 45 were performed for patients 65 years of age or older (group 2). The groups were demographically similar, except for the average age and the American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) classification. Operative characteristics were similar, but the average length of hospital stay differed: 2.2 days for group 1 and 3.9 days for group 2 (p < 0.03). Complications occurred for 8.5% of group 1 and 17.8% of group 2, but the percentages were similar by ASA class.

CONCLUSIONS

Elderly patients have a higher rate of complications after laparoscopic splenectomy. The complications are similar when matched for ASA class, but a larger percentage of elderly patients fall into higher ASA class ratings.

Laparoscopic splenectomy with the da Vinci robot

BACKGROUND

We report our first series of minimally invasive splenectomies with a robotic surgical system.

METHODS

From August 2001 to October 2003, laparoscopic splenectomies with the da Vinci operating robot were performed in 7 patients (five females and two males, ages 20 to 74 years).

RESULTS

Indications for splenectomy were hematologic disorders in four patients and hypersplenism in three patients. Median dimensions of the resected spleens were 140 +/- 34 mm x 80 +/- 11 mm x 50 +/- 17 mm and median weight was 307 +/- 193 g. Median total operative time was 147 +/- 58 minutes including 107 +/- 49 minutes for the robotic act. There were no intraoperative complications and no conversions to open surgery. The median postoperative hospital stay was 7 days.

CONCLUSION

This first series suggests that robotic splenectomy with the da Vinci surgical system is technically feasible and safe. It provides an alternative to the conventional laparoscopic procedure. Nevertheless, justification for this new technique will require a larger prospective series and longer follow-up.

A Critical Comparison of Robotic Versus Conventional Laparoscopic Splenectomies

The benefit of robotic systems for general surgery is a matter of debate. We compare our initial series of robotic splenectomies with our first series of conventional laparoscopic ones. A retrospective analysis of the first six robotic versus the first six conventional laparoscopic splenectomies is presented. Patients were matched with regard to age, body-mass index, ASA score, and preoperative platelet levels. All procedures were performed by a single surgeon. Size and weight of the resected specimens were comparable in both groups. Median overall operating time was 154 (range, 115-292) min for the robotic and 127 (range, 95-174) min for the laparoscopic group. No complications occurred. There were no open conversions. The median postoperative hospital stay was 7 (robotic group) and 6 (laparoscopic group) days. Median average costs were 6927 dollars for the robotic procedure versus $4084 for the conventional laparoscopic procedure (p < 0.05). Minimally invasive splenectomies are feasible using either conventional laparoscopic techniques or the da Vinci robotic system. In this analysis, procedures performed with the da Vinci robotic system resulted in prolonged overall operative time and significantly higher procedural costs. The use of a robotic system for laparoscopic splenectomy offers, at this stage, no relevant benefit and thus is not justified.

Minimally invasive surgery

In 1987 Mouret performed the first laparoscopic cholecystectomy, starting a revolution in surgery. For paediatricians it is difficult to appreciate the magnitude of what has occurred in this short period. The development of minimal access techniques represents the most significant change in surgical practice since the introduction of aseptic technique or safe anaesthesia. As with many innovations, rapid change, technical language, and the evangelism of pioneers has left confusion in its wake.

Laparoscopic surgery of the spleen

In recent years, laparoscopy has become standard for various indications for splenic surgery. If dissection follows anatomical principles, both total and partial splenectomies can be performed quickly and safely. Partial resection of the spleen is easier when done laparoscopically than with open technique. This means that more spleens can be preserved than would have been removed with open surgery due to fear of parenchymal bleeding. In comparison with open surgery, laparoscopy shows acceptably low morbidity and equally good therapeutic effects.

Splenectomy for adult patients with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura: a systematic review to assess long-term platelet count responses, prediction of response, and surgical complications

Splenectomy has been a standard treatment for adult patients with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) for more than 50 years. However, the durability of responses, the ability to predict who will respond, and the frequency of surgical complications with splenectomy all remain uncertain. To better interpret current knowledge we systematically identified and reviewed all 135 case series, 1966 to 2004, that described 15 or more consecutive patients who had splenectomy for ITP and that had data for 1 of these 3 outcomes. Complete response was defined as a normal platelet count following splenectomy and for the duration of follow-up with no additional treatment. Forty-seven case series reported complete response in 1731 (66%) of 2623 adult patients with follow-up for 1 to 153 months; complete response rates did not correlate with duration of follow-up (r = -0.103, P = .49). None of 12 preoperative characteristics that have been reported consistently predicted response to splenectomy. Mortality was 1.0% (48 of 4955 patients) with laparotomy and 0.2% (3 of 1301 patients) with laparoscopy. Complication rates were 12.9% (318 of 2465) with laparotomy and 9.6% (88 of 921 patients) with laparoscopic splenectomy. Although the risk of surgery is an important consideration, splenectomy provides a high frequency of durable responses for adult patients with ITP. (Blood. 2004; 104:2623-2634)

Endoscopic management of pancreatic fistula after pancreatic and other abdominal surgery

Post-operative pancreatic fistulae represent a challenge for all the actors in gastroenterology: for surgeons, because they want to prevent and treat conservatively this complication since re-operation is associated with high morbidity and mortality rates; for radiologists, because they have to provide the best staging and informations without any additional risk; and for endoscopists, because endoluminal treatment is emerging as a safe and effective procedure provided it is performed in highly experienced tertiary centres in the setting of a multidisciplinary approach. Herein, we review the definitions, the causes, the staging and the possible options to prevent or treat post-operative pancreatic fistulae. Special attention is paid to the endoscopic management of this complication: including the relief of ductal obstructions, the stenting of leakages and the drainage of bulging or non-bulging fluid collections. Practical problems and issues are clearly outlined as well as the need for future improvements in staging and management of the patients having such complications.

Laparoscopic splenectomy: multi-detector row CT for preoperative evaluation

PURPOSE

To prospectively evaluate multi-detector row spiral computed tomography (CT) for determination of splenic volume, splenic vascular anatomy, and presence of accessory spleens and parenchymal lesions in patients who were undergoing laparoscopic splenectomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-two patients who were candidates for laparoscopic splenectomy underwent multiphasic multi-detector row CT. Two observers evaluated splenic volume with two hand-tracing editing modalities. Variability between the two observers was calculated with a reliability coefficient (Cronbach alpha). A linear regression equation for each modality was generated to identify the correlation between the two observers. Multi-detector row CT angiography was evaluated for assessment of splenic vascular anatomy. Presence and number of both accessory spleens and parenchymal lesions were recorded.

RESULTS

Mean splenic volume was 1,050 and 1,046 mL, respectively, for observers A and B by using each-section editing (technique 1) and 1,067 and 1,068 mL for observers A and B by using distanced editing (technique 2). For each editing modality, alpha reliability coefficient was higher than 0.99. Both techniques 1 and 2 were very highly predictive of specimen weight and had R2 values of greater than 0.99 (P <.001). CT angiograms correctly showed polar arteries in all cases and the presence of the arteria pancreatica magna in one case. Multi-detector row CT demonstrated the presence, number, and size of all accessory spleens and of focal parenchymal lesions.

CONCLUSION

Multi-detector row CT volumetric and anatomic evaluation provided accurate and reproducible information.

Esplenectomia vídeo-laparoscópica para púrpura trombocitopênica imune: técnica e resultados

OBJETIVO: Avaliar os resultados da esplenectomia vídeo-laparoscópica para pacientes portadores de Púrpura Trombocitopênica Imune. MÉTODO: Estudo prospectivo de 17 pacientes portadores de Púrpura Trombocitopênica Imune submetidos a esplenectomia vídeo-laparoscópica com uso de três trocartes e ligadura com fio do hilo esplênico, no Hospital Universitário Clementino Fraga Filho - UFRJ, Rio de Janeiro, no período de janeiro de 2001 a julho de 2003. Foram avaliadas as taxas de conversão, transfusão e de remissão da doença, os tempos operatório, anestésico e de internação, além das incidências de complicações e de baços acessórios. RESULTADOS: Nos 17 pacientes submetidos à técnica, não houve conversão para cirurgia aberta. Complicações ocorreram em três pacientes (17,6%): um hematoma subcutâneo, um tecido esplênico residual, um pseudocisto pancreático. Reoperação foi necessária em um paciente, 24 meses após a esplenectomia, para retirada de tecido esplênico residual, sem plaquetopenia. Foi necessária a colocação adicional de um trocarte de 5mm em quatro pacientes. Não houve óbitos. O tempo operatório médio foi de 132,9min e o tempo médio de internação de 2,53 dias. Foi necessária transfusão de plaquetas em dois pacientes (11,8%). Baço acessório foi encontrado em quatro pacientes (23,5%). Responderam favoravelmente à esplenectomia 13 pacientes (76,5%), ocorrendo nenhuma resposta ou não duradoura em quatro pacientes (23,5%). CONCLUSÕES: Cuidados no per- operatório são importantes para evitar a disseminação de tecido esplênico, a não identificação de baços acessórios e a técnica mais anatômica para evitar lesões pancreáticas, hemorragia e conversão. Os pacientes com PTI respondem em proporções semelhantes à cirurgia aberta comparados com dados da literatura, com menor índice de complicações e menor tempo de internação. Os resultados obtidos sugerem que a esplenectomia laparoscópica é segura e efetiva, tornando-se o tratamento de escolha para PTI com indicação cirúrgica.

Experience with Seven Cases of Massive Splenomegaly

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic excision of extremely large spleens has been variously reported, but the usual consensus in the literature is that any patient with a spleen anything over 3000 g is simply not a proper candidate for laparoscopy. This report details our experience with 7 patients (out of 95 operated on) with spleens ranging in size up to 4800 g.

METHODS

Our operative procedure involved 3 or 4 trocars placed along a virtually semicircular line centered over the splenic hilum. Splenic attachments were excised with the ultrasonic dissector, and the hilum divided with a stapler. Due to the size of the spleens, Pfannenstiel's incisions were utilized for hand-port placement in the extraction of the specimen.

RESULTS

Surgery was successful in all 7 cases, and required no conversion to an open procedure. The average splenic weight was 3450 g (range, 3000-4800 g). Mean operative time was 168 minutes (range, 127-250 minutes).

CONCLUSION

Because of improved instrumentation (i.e., laparoscopic stapler and ultrasonic dissector) and refinement of technique, spleens very much larger than what was once considered practicable can now be excised laparoscopically with similarly low morbidity as compared with open splenectomy.

Outpatient laparoscopic splenectomy: patient safety and satisfaction

BACKGROUND

We assessed the feasibility of outpatient laparoscopic splenectomy, as performed by an experienced laparoscopic term and combined with optimal anesthesia.

METHODS

Inclusion criteria in the study was limited to patients not hospitalized before the procedure who had hematological or neoplastic indications for splenectomy and were classified as American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) I-III. They received general intravenous anesthesia with propofol and remifentanil and were given keterolac, propacetamol, droperidol, and ondansetron as prophylaxis against postoperative pain and nausea. Laparoscopic splenectomy was performed via three trocars. The specimen was removed via an incision in the left iliac fossa.

RESULTS

Ten of the 12 patients were discharged 3-6 h postoperatively; the other two were admitted primarily to hospital. One was readmitted due to a fever, which was finally explained by measles. The median operative times was 58 min (range, 45-135). Patient satisfaction was excellent in nine and intermediate in two cases; it was poor in one case, due to postoperative pain.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic splenectomy can be completed in a relatively short time; therefore, it is feasible, safe, and satisfactory for most patients as an outpatient procedure.

Hand-assisted laparoscopic splenectomy in the setting of splenomegaly

BACKGROUND

Hand-assisted laparoscopic surgery (HALS) devices may be well suited to splenectomy in cases of splenomegaly.

METHODS

All cases of HALS for splenectomy between 1997 and 2001 were reviewed. Patient characteristics, operative details, and morbidity and mortality were analyzed.

RESULTS

HALS for splenectomy was performed in 54 patients. A total of 39 patients with massive splenomegaly (MS) (>600 g) were identified. The average weight of the MS group was 1285 +/- 505 g. There was one (3%) conversion. Operative time was 159 +/- 65 min, estimated blood loss was 257 +/- 240 ml, and length of hospital stay was 5.4 +/- 2.9 days. Morbidity was limited to 13 patients (24%), and there were two postoperative mortalities (5.1%).

CONCLUSIONS

HALS for splenectomy in the setting of splenomegaly is feasible and safe. For the surgeon considering a laparoscopic approach in the setting of splenomegaly, a hand-assisted technique is ideally suited for removal of the enlarged spleen.

Does the Early Ligation of the Splenic Artery Reduce Hemorrhage During Laparoscopic Splenectomy?

The aim of this study was to investigate whether early ligation of the splenic artery before splenic lysis has an effect on the amount of intraoperative bleeding and conversion rate during laparoscopic splenectomy. Laparoscopic splenectomy was performed in 34 patients with hematological diseases or splenic cysts between January 1993 and January 2003. The splenic artery was ligated before manipulation of the spleen in 22 patients (group 1) and laparoscopic splenectomy was performed with no previous ligation of the splenic artery in 12 patients (group 2). Prospective data was collected and the groups compared regarding intraoperative blood loss, platelet count, operative time, hospital stay, and conversion rate. Laparoscopic splenectomy was successfully completed in 30 (88%) patients. One patient in group 1 (5%) and 3 patients in group 2 (25%) required conversion due to bleeding. Estimated average blood loss was 161 mL (range 70-450 mL) in group 1, and 292 mL (range 100-700 mL) in group 2 (P < 0.001). The average operative time was 140 minutes (range 80-240) in group 1, and 155 minutes (range 80-200) in group 2 (P > 0.05). There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups comparing splenic size, conversion rate, hospital length of stay and platelet count. Early ligation of the splenic artery is feasible, safe and effective and may provide easy dissection and manipulation of the spleen during laparoscopic splenectomy with decreased intraoperative blood loss and no extension of the operative time.

101 laparoscopic splenectomies for the treatment of benign and malignant hematologic disorders

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic splenectomy (LS) is the surgical approach of choice for patients with hematologic disorders requiring splenectomy. Patients with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) have normal to slightly enlarged spleens and benefit the most from LS.

METHODS

We reviewed the perioperative outcomes in 101 patients who underwent LS between May 1996 and December 2002. Patients were divided into three groups--ITP, other benign, and malignant hematologic disorders--and compared.

RESULTS

The ITP patients (n = 48) had significantly smaller spleens and operative times compared with the other groups. Splenomegaly in the other benign (n = 23) and malignant hematologic disorders (n = 30) groups was responsible for higher open conversion rates and greater need for hand-assisted laparoscopic splenectomy (HALS).

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic splenectomy and HALS can be performed with good results for benign and malignant hematologic disorders. The benefits of HALS are similar to LS, so there should be a low threshold for HALS in patients with large spleens.

Determination of intact splenic weight based on morcellated weight

BACKGROUND

Comparisons of splenic size based on splenic weight are difficult after laparoscopic splenectomy, which results in a morcellated specimen. We report the results of a direct comparison between morcellated and intact splenic weights.

METHODS

Porcine spleens were harvested via a midline laparotomy, and an intact splenic weight was obtained, which served as the control. The spleen then was placed into an impermeable retrieval bag and returned to the peritoneal cavity. A separate 10-mm incision was made and the spleen mechanically morcellated with a uterine forceps. This design most faithfully recreates the morcellation process during laparoscopic splenectomy in humans. The aggregate weight of the fragments was compared with intact splenic weight.

RESULTS

Intact and morcellated weights were obtained from 58 porcine spleens. The mean intact splenic weight was 145 g, and the mean morcellated weight was 78 g. For a given morcellated weight achieved at laparoscopic splenectomy, an estimated intact weight can be determined by the following formula: intact weight (g) = morcellated weight (g) x 1.34 + 45.

CONCLUSIONS

On the basis of our calculations, a normal spleen weighing 150 g would have a mean morcellated weight of 78 g, and splenomegaly (intact spleen weighing 250 g or more) would be defined by a morcellated weight exceeding 153 g.

Use of laparoscopic splenectomy in developing countries: analysis of cost and strategies for reducing cost

BACKGROUND

In general, laparoscopic surgery is more expensive than open surgery. However, recent reports showed lower overall cost.

PATIENT AND METHODS

Fourteen patients underwent laparoscopic splenectomy (LS) and 15 patients open splenectomy (OS). Patients were evaluated with regard to blood loss, complication rate, length of hospital stay, operative time, presence of accessory spleens, hospital cost, and total cost. For the OS group, there was no laparoscopic instrument cost, and the total cost was equal to the hospital cost. In the LS group, total cost was calculated by adding the hospital cost to the cost of laparoscopic instruments.

RESULTS

The postoperative hospitalization was shorter in the LS group than the OS group (3.4 vs. 7.5 days), but the operating time was significantly longer for the LS group. The mean hospital cost was calculated as US $1,055 in the LS group and $1,664 in the OS group. The overall total cost was $1,664 for the OS group and $2,064 for the LS group. In the LS group, less morbidity and shorter postoperative hospital stay resulted in lower hospital cost.

CONCLUSION

The cost for laparoscopic instruments is the main factor responsible for the high total cost of LS. Resterilization of disposable laparoscopic instruments is feasible and a more economic way of treatment compared with splenectomy with totally disposable laparoscopic instruments and has costs comparable to those of open surgery.

Laparoscopic splenectomy for idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura

We conducted a retrospective multicenter study by questionnaire to evaluate the results of laparoscopic splenectomy for idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). Between 1991 and 1998, 209 patients with a mean age of 41.2 years (range, 10-83) had a laparoscopic splenectomy for idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura. Preoperatively, 178 patients (85%) underwent medical treatment aimed at achieving a satisfactory platelet count. Twenty-nine patients were obese, with a body mass index greater than 30%, and 14% were HIV-seropositive. The so-called hanging spleen technique in the right lateral decubitus position was used most often. The average duration of surgery was 144 minutes (45-360). This was significantly longer in cases of conversion (170 minutes; P < 0.01). The factors influencing the duration of laparoscopy were operator experience and patient obesity (P < 0.01). A conversion was necessary in 36 cases (17.2%) because of hemorrhage. The conversion rate varied from 5.3% to 46.7%, depending on the surgical team. A multivariate analysis of factors disposing to conversion identified two causes: obesity and operator experience. One or more accessory spleens were found in 34 patients (16.2%). The average weight of the spleens was 194.2 g. There were no deaths. There were no complications in 187 patients (89.5%), with a mean hospital stay of 6.1 days. Patients who did not require a conversion had a significantly earlier return of intestinal transit, used less analgesic, and had a shorter length of hospitalization. Overall morbidity was 10.5% (22 cases), due to subphrenic collections (7 cases), abdominal wall complications (6 cases), re-intervention for actual or suspected hemorrhage or pancreatitis (3 cases), pneumopathology (2 cases) and others (4 cases). A multivariate analysis about morbidity shows a statistically significant difference in conversions (P < 0.05) but not in obesity or in surgeon's experience. Normal activity was achieved on average by the twentieth postoperative day--earlier if conversion was not required (18.4 versus 33.9 days). The average preoperative platelet count was 92.7 x 10(9)/L (range, 3 to 444). Twenty patients had a count of less than 30 x 10(9)/L and in this group the conversion rate was 30% (6 cases). Ninety-six patients were seen in the outpatient clinic, with an average follow-up time of 16.2 months (3 to 72 months), and the average platelet count was 242 x 10(9)/L (6 to 780). Eight patients (8.3%) were failures with a platelet count of <30 x 10(9)/L. In the 20 patients with a preoperative platelet count <30 x 10(9)/L, there were 3 early failures and 5 late relapses. There were 2 late deaths: chest infection at 3 months in an HIV seropositive patient and one case of pulmonary embolus at 6 months. Laparoscopic splenectomy constitutes a real alternative to conventional splenectomy for the treatment of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura. It is associated with fewer postoperative complications, a shorter duration of hospitalization and an earlier return to normal activity. The limiting factors are the experience of the operator and patient obesity. The long-term results are identical to those of conventional splenectomy, with a better than average success rate in patients that have failed preoperative medical treatment.

Laparoscopic Splenectomy Review of Five Cases

Laparascopic splenectomy is one of the advanced surgical procedures with indications gradually increasing in hematological diseases. This is a review of five cases operated upon over two years. All were female patients, three with ITP and two with thalassemia. In one with gall bladder stones, laparascopic cholecystectomy was done with splenectomy. The mean operative time was 3 hours and 30 minutes. No case was converted to open technique. There were no intra-operative or post-operative complications with optimum patient response over the six month follow up; no steroids were required for the ITP patients and no more blood transfusions for the thalassemia patients.