Subtotal splenectomy preserving the lower pole in rats: technical, morphological and functional aspects

Area of Science:

• Surgical Innovation
• Spleen Preservation Techniques
• Experimental Surgery

Background:

• Subtotal splenectomy aims to retain splenic function while removing diseased portions.
• The viability of preserved splenic segments, particularly the lower pole, requires thorough investigation.
• Understanding the vascular supply is crucial for successful splenic tissue preservation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility of preserving the spleen's lower pole during subtotal splenectomy.
• To assess the viability and function of the preserved lower splenic pole.
• To investigate the impact of preserving the lower pole on lipid metabolism post-surgery.

Main Methods:

• Thirty-six male Wistar rats were divided into sham operation, total splenectomy, and subtotal splenectomy groups.
• Subtotal splenectomy involved preserving the spleen's lower pole.
• Lipid profiles (cholesterol, triglycerides) were measured pre- and post-surgery (90 days).
• Macroscopic and microscopic examinations of splenic tissue were performed.

Main Results:

• Subtotal splenectomy successfully preserved the lower splenic pole in all cases.
• Preserved lower poles showed macroscopic viability with minor inflammation and fibrosis.
• Total splenectomy led to significant increases in plasma lipid levels, unlike subtotal splenectomy.
• Subtotal splenectomy maintained lipid levels comparable to sham-operated controls.

Conclusions:

• Preservation of the spleen's lower pole is achievable via subtotal splenectomy.
• The preserved lower pole demonstrates macroscopic and microscopic viability.
• Subtotal splenectomy mitigates the adverse effects on lipid metabolism observed after total splenectomy.