Laparoscopic splenic biopsy in dogs and cats: 15 cases (2006-2008)

This retrospective study describes a technique and evaluates outcome associated with laparoscopic splenic biopsy in dogs and cats. Medical records of dogs (n = 10) and cats (n = 5) that had a laparoscopic splenic biopsy performed as part of their diagnostic evaluation for systemic disease were evaluated. Splenic biopsies were performed with the patient in dorsal recumbency using a two-portal approach. In some cases, concurrent organ biopsy was also performed. A pair of 5 mm cup biopsy forceps was used for biopsy collection, and an absorbable gelatin hemostatic sponge was placed at the biopsy site to aid in hemostasis. All patients recovered without major complications. Conversion to an open surgical approach was not required. Median survival time was 180 days, and nine patients were alive at the time of manuscript preparation. Four patients were diagnosed with neoplasia; however, only one had neoplasia involving the spleen. Median survival time for the nonneoplasia group (n = 11) was 300 days. Eight of those patients were alive at time of manuscript preparation. Minimal morbidity was observed in this cohort of clinical patients. Histopathology may be preferred over cytology in some clinical situations, and laparoscopic splenic biopsy provides a minimally invasive diagnostic option.