Laparoscopic splenectomy: operative technique and preliminary report

A technique of laparoscopic splenectomy was developed on animal models and subsequently applied in two human patients. After creation of a 15 mm Hg pneumoperitoneum, five trocars, two with 12-mm diameters, were introduced into the upper abdomen. The spleen was approached directly by dissection of the gastrosplenic ligament. The short gastric vessels and hilar vessels were individually ligated with metallic clips or a surgical stapler, depending on their size. A plastic bag was then introduced into the abdominal cavity and the spleen slipped inside. An umbilical incision measuring 2 to 3 cm was used for extraction after finger fracture of the spleen. After laboratory experience with seven animals, we used this operation on two patients. The first procedure had to be converted to open surgery because of hemorrhage; the second was successfully performed within 4 h. Knowledge of anatomic variations and meticulous surgical technique are necessary for the successful completion of splenic laparoscopic surgery.