Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 27, 2026

Laparoscopic Splenectomy with Pericardial Devascularization for Hypersplenism and Esophageal Variceal Hemorrhage Due to Portal Hypertension
Published on: November 15, 2024
Laparoscopic gastric devascularization without splenectomy is effective for the treatment of gastric varices
Toru Zuiki1, Yoshinori Hosoya1, Yasunaru Sakuma1
1Jichi Medical University, Clinical Institute of Digestive Diseases, Surgical Branch, Yakushiji 3311-1, Shimotsuke City, Tochigi, Japan.
Introduction:
Laparoscopic gastric devascularization of the upper stomach in patients with gastric varices has rarely been reported. Perioperative clinical data were compared with patients who underwent open surgery.
Presentation Of Cases:
From 2009 to 2012, we performed laparoscopic gastric devascularization without splenectomy for the treatment of gastric varices in eight patients. The patients included four males and four females. Peri-gastric vessels were divided using electrical coagulating devices or other devices according to the diameter of the vessels. Two patients underwent conversion to open surgery due to intraoperative bleeding.
Discussion:
Intraoperative blood loss in patients who accomplished laparoscopic devascularization was very small (mean 76ml). However, once bleeding occurs, there is a risk of causing massive bleeding.
Conclusion:
With further improvement of laparoscopic devices, laparoscopic gastric devascularization without splenectomy must be an effective and less-invasive surgical procedure in the treatment of gastric varices.
Related Concept Videos
Esophageal Varices-II: Clinical Features and Management
In the initial assessment, a thorough review of the patient's medical history is vital to identify risk factors such as liver disease, alcohol...
Varicose Veins II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
Esophageal Varices-I: Introduction
Peptic Ulcer Disease V: Surgical Management and Nursing Care
Surgical Interventions for Peptic Ulcer Disease

