Postoperative outcomes after splenectomy: a 20-year single-center experience in Colombia

Area of Science:

• Surgical outcomes and infectious complications following splenectomy.
• Analysis of patient demographics and operative characteristics.

Background:

• Splenectomy is indicated for various conditions, but carries risks of infectious complications.
• Post-splenectomy outcomes require comprehensive understanding for patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail a 20-year single-center experience of splenectomy outcomes.
• To analyze postoperative infectious complications and compare approaches (open vs. laparoscopic) and settings.
• To provide a baseline for future research in Colombia.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort study of adult patients undergoing splenectomy (2003-2023).
• Inclusion of clinical, operative, and infectious outcome variables.
• Subgroup analysis based on surgical approach and setting.

Main Results:

• 134 patients included; 52.99% female, mean age 51.01 years.
• Trauma was the most frequent indication (31.34%); laparoscopic approach used in 41.79%.
• Overwhelming post-splenectomy syndrome (OPSI) occurred in 2.24%; open surgery and trauma patients had longer operative times and hospital stays.

Conclusions:

• The study provides demographic, clinical, and operative data for splenectomy patients in Colombia.
• Postoperative complications, including OPSI, align with international findings.
• Further prospective studies are recommended for high-risk subgroups.