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Splenectomy using a completely needlescopic procedure: report of three cases
Nobumi Tagaya1, Kyu Rokkaku, Keiichi Kubota
1Second Department of Surgery, Dokkyo University School of Medicine, Tochigi, Japan. tagaya@dokkyomed.ac.jp
Summary
Needlescopic splenectomy offers a safe and effective minimally invasive approach for treating idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura. This technique results in reduced pain and improved cosmetic outcomes compared to traditional laparoscopic surgery.
Area of Science:
- Minimally invasive surgery
- Surgical oncology
- Gastrointestinal surgery
Background:
- Needlescopic instruments are increasingly utilized in endoscopic surgery.
- Laparoscopic splenectomy is a common procedure for certain hematologic conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of laparoscopic splenectomy using a needlescope.
- To assess the feasibility of needlescopic instruments in spleen removal.
Main Methods:
- Laparoscopic splenectomy performed on three patients with refractory idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura.
- Utilized a 2-mm needlescope and four ports for the procedure.
- Spleen dissection and vessel ligation performed using a linear stapler; specimen morcellated for removal.
Main Results:
- Mean operative time was 167 minutes with an average blood loss of 70 mL.
- No patients required postoperative analgesia, and no perioperative complications occurred.
- Resulted in virtually invisible 2-mm postoperative scars.
Conclusions:
- Needlescopic splenectomy is a feasible and safe procedure for idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura.
- Offers advantages of less postoperative pain and superior cosmetic results over conventional laparoscopic splenectomy.