title: Laparoscopic splenectomy for immune thrombocytopenic purpura.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Laparoscopic splenectomy has become the preferred method of splenectomy for refractory immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). We present our experience with the introduction of laparoscopic splenectomy for ITP.
  
  
  METHODS
  Over a 2-year period, retrospective and prospective data were collected on all patients undergoing laparoscopic splenectomy for ITP at our institution. We analysed demographic data, peri-operative courses, platelet count responses and complications.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Twenty laparoscopic splenectomies were performed. There were 2 conversions to an open procedure. The average operating time was 100 minutes (range 30 - 170 minutes), and mean blood loss was 106 ml (range 50 - 200 ml). There were no deaths or major complications. The mean follow-up period was 7 months. Ninety-five per cent of patients had a complete or partial response to splenectomy.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Laparoscopic splenectomy can be introduced safely with an acceptable conversion rate, and is an effective treatment for ITP on short-term follow-up.
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa. lucienferndale@gmail.com
authors.forename: Lucien
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Ferndale
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Naidoo
authors.forename: S H
authors.initials: SH
authors.lastname: Bhaila
authors.forename: S R
authors.initials: SR
authors.lastname: Thomson
authors.forename: F
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Bassa
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D007902:Length of Stay / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies; D016553:Purpura, Thrombocytopenic, Idiopathic / Q000601:surgery*; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013156:Splenectomy / Q000379:methods*; D016896:Treatment Outcome