The impact of splenic weight on laparoscopic splenectomy for splenomegaly.
BACKGROUND
Enlarged spleens increase the technical difficulties associated with laparoscopic splenectomy (LS). The aim of this study was to analyze the impact of splenic weight on the results of LS.


METHODS
We performed a prospective analysis of 20 LS for splenomegaly and 40 LS for normal spleen in terms of intraoperative and early postoperative outcome.


RESULTS
Patients with splenomegaly had longer operative times and higher conversion and transfusion rates than those with normal spleens. Patients with spleens weighing < 2000 G experienced less blood loss, fewer conversions, and a shorter postoperative hospital stay than those with spleens > 2000 g. No differences-except for the longer operative time-were observed between normal-sized spleens and those weighing < 2000 G.


CONCLUSIONS
LS for splenomegaly is feasible for experienced laparoscopic surgeons. For spleens weighing < 2000 G, the outcome was comparable to that of normal spleens, whereas LS for spleens >2000 g was associated with a higher conversion rate, greater blood loss, a longer hospital stay, and increased morbidity.
Terrosu
G
G
Department of Surgery, University Hospital of Udine, P.le S. Maria Misericordia, Udine 33100, Italy.
Baccarani
U
U
Bresadola
V
V
Sistu
M A
MA
Uzzau
A
A
Bresadola
F
F
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009929:Organ Size / Q000502:physiology*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D013154:Spleen / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery*; D013156:Splenectomy / Q000379:methods*; D013163:Splenomegaly / Q000601:surgery*