A paracostal approach for splenectomy in the sheep

A modified left paracostal approach was developed to splenectomize sheep. This approach was found to be superior to the described approaches for removal of the spleen by rib resection. Since the diaphragm is in close approximation to the last rib, resection of the last rib can result in entry of the thoracic cavity, which will complicate the surgical procedure. Furthermore, rib resection necessitates the use of analgesics, due to the pain commonly associated with any orthopedic procedure, and thereby extends postoperative recovery time. The paracostal abdominal approach provides excellent exposure, ease of manipulation, reduced anesthetic time, and fewer related problems such as postoperative pain control and thoracic evacuation. A major benefit of the paracostal approach is the minimal need for analgesic support as evidenced by the animals' rapid return to normal function. This bypasses the need for extended recovery, as required in the rib resection approach, and allows earlier utilization of the animal for research.