title: Laparoscopic splenectomy using the harmonic scalpel.
abstract: Laparoscopic splenectomy is an accepted technique in the treatment of various pediatric autoimmune and hematologic disorders. We have employed the use of the harmonic scalpel and a posterolateral approach to improve hemostasis, ease of dissection, and decrease operative time. Four patients underwent laparoscopic splenectomy using the harmonic scalpel. Operative time averaged 1 h and 40 mm and average blood loss was less than 10 ml. Hospital stay averaged 2 days. Use of the harmonic scalpel has considerably cut our operative time and improved our patient outcomes.
authors.affiliation: Department of Pediatric Surgery, Presbyterian/St. Lukes Medical Center for Children, Denver, Colorado USA.
authors.forename: S S
authors.initials: SS
authors.lastname: Rothenberg
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D016063:Blood Loss, Surgical / Q000517:prevention & control; D002648:Child; D006801:Humans; D020706:Laparoscopes; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D007902:Length of Stay; D016553:Purpura, Thrombocytopenic, Idiopathic / Q000601:surgery*; D013103:Spherocytosis, Hereditary / Q000601:surgery*; D013156:Splenectomy / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods*; D013525:Surgical Instruments; D013997:Time Factors; D014465:Ultrasonics