Minimally invasive splenectomy: an update and review

Area of Science:

• Surgical Innovation
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Gastrointestinal Surgery

Background:

• Laparoscopic splenectomy (LS) is a widely adopted surgical technique for spleen disorders.
• Advancements continue to refine minimally invasive approaches to splenectomy.
• Understanding current procedures and potential complications is crucial for patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an updated review of laparoscopic splenectomy (LS) procedures.
• To discuss current controversies and considerations in minimally invasive splenectomy.
• To assess various LS techniques and their outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on laparoscopic splenectomy.
• Individual assessment of multiport, hand-assisted, robotic, NOTES, and single-port LS.
• Examination of indications, contraindications, and preoperative factors.
• Analysis of postoperative outcomes, including complications and long-term considerations.

Main Results:

• Laparoscopic splenectomy (LS) is established as a standard surgical approach.
• Multiple LS techniques exist, each with specific procedural aspects and outcomes.
• Postoperative considerations include patient recovery, thrombosis risk, infection, and malignancy surveillance.

Conclusions:

• Laparoscopic splenectomy (LS) represents a significant advancement in spleen surgery.
• The choice of LS technique should be individualized based on patient factors and surgeon expertise.
• Comprehensive preoperative and postoperative management is essential for optimal patient outcomes.