[Splenic injuries: recent acquisitions concerning the treatment]

The Authors briefly review spleen functions and the consequences of splenectomy particularly for what the immune function is concerned. Data concerning postoperative infections following splenectomy for staging laparotomy in 92 patients with lymphoma are analysed. Data concerning immunological function of 17 pts. who underwent splenectomy in the last 5 yrs. compared to 17 normal controls, homogeneous for sex and age, are reported. Plasma IgM decrease in 3 cases, CMI anergic status in 3 cases and CD4+/CD8+ lymphocyte ratio increase in 8 cases were observed. This article also reviews surgical techniques and recent knowledge in relation to the best treatment for splenic traumas, emphasizing advantages and disadvantages of conservative treatment. The Authors conclude presenting their personal series of 42 pts. affected with traumatic lesions of the spleen treated in the last 10 yrs., also illustrating a treatment flow-chart.