Laparoscopic splenectomy: a personal series of 140 consecutive cases.
BACKGROUND
Laparoscopic splenectomy has emerged as a safe and effective treatment for a variety of haematological conditions. The objective was to review the results from a large personal series from the perspective of outcomes according to operative time, conversion to open operation, complications and mortality. The application of laparoscopic splenectomy to cases of splenomegaly without hand assistance is examined.


METHODS
A retrospective review of 140 patients undergoing laparoscopic splenectomy at a single university hospital by one surgeon during 1994-2006. Case notes were reviewed and data collected on operative time, conversion to open procedure, morbidity and mortality. Particular reference was made towards the results of cases of splenomegaly.


RESULTS
In total 140 laparoscopic splenectomies were performed with a complication rate of 15% and no mortality. The median operative time was 100 min and conversion to open procedure was necessary in 2.1%. Conversion for cases of splenomegaly was only 5.7%. The median hospital stay was 3 days.


CONCLUSIONS
Laparoscopic splenectomy is a safe procedure with acceptable morbidity. A laparoscopic approach for splenomegaly is feasible.
Pattenden
Clare J
CJ
Department of Surgery, University Hospitals of Leicester, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, UK.
Mann
Christopher D
CD
Metcalfe
Matthew S
MS
Dyer
Martin
M
Lloyd
David M
DM
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D002983:Clinical Competence; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007432:Intraoperative Period; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards; D007902:Length of Stay / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D016553:Purpura, Thrombocytopenic, Idiopathic / Q000601:surgery; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013156:Splenectomy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards; D013163:Splenomegaly / Q000601:surgery; D055815:Young Adult