Laparoscopic-assisted splenectomy in dogs: 18 cases (2012-2014)

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Techniques
• Canine Surgical Oncology

Background:

• Splenectomy is a common procedure in veterinary medicine for various splenic conditions.
• Traditional open splenectomy can involve significant surgical trauma.
• Laparoscopic techniques offer potential advantages in reducing invasiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail the surgical technique for laparoscopic-assisted splenectomy (LAS) in dogs.
• To evaluate the perioperative outcomes and complications associated with LAS.
• To assess the feasibility of LAS for treating splenic masses and other diseases.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective case series of 18 client-owned dogs undergoing LAS.
• Review of medical records including surgical technique, intraoperative findings, and postoperative outcomes.
• Surgical approach involved laparoscopic exploration followed by minilaparotomy for spleen exteriorization.

Main Results:

• LAS was technically feasible in all 18 dogs, with no conversions to open laparotomy required.
• The primary indications for splenectomy were splenic masses (15 dogs), suspected neoplasia (2 dogs), and immune-mediated disease (1 dog).
• Complications were minimal, with only one dog experiencing minor intraoperative hemorrhage.

Conclusions:

• Laparoscopic-assisted splenectomy is a technically feasible and safe procedure in dogs.
• LAS offers potential benefits of minimally invasive surgery, including smaller incisions and enhanced visualization.
• Further studies are warranted to confirm the long-term benefits in selected canine patients.