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Updated: Jun 26, 2026
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Application of Laparoscopic Partial Splenectomy with Total Blood Flow Occlusion in Benign Splenic Lesions
Published on: December 20, 2024
Splenic syndrome: a rare indication for splenectomy.
Viswanadham Pothula1, Emi Saegusa, Daisuke Takekoshi
1U.S. Naval Hospital, Yokosuka, Japan. viswanadham.pothula@med.navy.mil
Military Medicine
|January 20, 2009
Summary
Sickle cell trait and high altitude can cause splenic infarction. Some patients require spleen removal (splenectomy) due to severe necrosis or pain.
Area of Science:
- Medicine
- Hematology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Sickle cell trait (SCT) is a common inherited blood disorder.
- High-altitude environments pose physiological stress.
- Splenic infarction is a known complication in individuals with SCT under stress.
Observation:
- This study describes six patients with SCT who developed splenic infarction due to high-altitude stress.
- Two patients experienced near-total splenic necrosis and intractable pain, necessitating splenectomy.
- Literature review indicates splenectomy is indicated for splenic rupture, extensive necrosis, or persistent pain.
Findings:
- High-altitude stress is a significant contributing factor to splenic infarction in individuals with SCT.
- The severity of altitude stress and the patient's physical condition influence infarction risk.
- Medical management is the primary treatment, but surgical intervention (splenectomy) may be required in severe cases.
Implications:
- Highlights the risk of splenic infarction in SCT patients at high altitudes.
- Emphasizes the need for careful consideration of physical condition and altitude exposure in SCT patients.
- Informs clinical decision-making regarding medical versus surgical management of splenic complications in SCT.
