Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 30, 2026
Robot-Assisted Laparoscopic Splenectomy In Children: A Case Report with Literature Review
Published on: March 27, 2026
Case Report: Single-port robotic-assisted partial splenectomy for a giant congenital splenic cyst in a child using
Qingchi Zhang1,2, Lingling Sun1,2, Zhongxi Zhang1,2
1Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital of Fudan University (Xiamen Branch), Xiamen Children's Hospital, Xiamen, China.
Insights
Single-port robotic partial splenectomy successfully treated a giant congenital splenic cyst in a child, preserving spleen function. This minimally invasive approach offers a promising alternative to traditional surgery for pediatric splenic lesions.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Minimally Invasive Surgery
- Surgical Oncology
Background:
- Congenital splenic cysts are rare and may necessitate surgical intervention when large or symptomatic.
- Total splenectomy carries risks, making spleen-preserving procedures preferable in pediatric cases.
- Robotic surgery offers potential advantages for complex spleen-preserving procedures, but experience with single-port systems for pediatric splenic cysts is limited.
Introduction:
Congenital splenic cysts are rare in children. When cysts become large or symptomatic, surgical intervention may be required. Because total splenectomy increases the risk of overwhelming post-splenectomy infection, spleen-preserving procedures are generally preferred whenever technically feasible. With the development of minimally invasive surgery, robotic platforms may provide technical advantages in complex spleen-preserving procedures. However, experience with single-port robotic surgery for pediatric splenic cysts remains extremely limited.
Case Description:
We report the case of a 9-year-old boy weighing 33.5 kg who presented with progressive abdominal distension. Preoperative ultrasonography and computed tomography demonstrated a giant splenic cystic lesion with marked mass effect on adjacent structures. Given the lesion size and the need to preserve splenic function, single-port robotic-assisted partial splenectomy using the SHURUI system was performed. The cyst was decompressed first, followed by selective control of the segmental splenic vessels with hemoclips and demarcation-guided parenchymal transection. The operation was completed successfully without conversion or intraoperative complications. Estimated blood loss was approximately 20 mL, and the patient was discharged on postoperative day 6. Pathological examination, supported by immunohistochemistry, confirmed a congenital epithelial splenic cyst. At 3-month follow-up, the patient remained asymptomatic, with satisfactory residual splenic morphology and no evidence of recurrence. Additionally, he had resumed competitive sports without any limitations at 6-month follow-up.
Discussion:
This case suggests that single-port robotic-assisted partial splenectomy using the SHURUI system is feasible in selected pediatric patients with giant congenital splenic cysts. The procedure provided adequate exposure, precise dissection, and satisfactory spleen preservation through a transumbilical approach. Although the experience is limited to a single case and longer follow-up is required, this report adds to the emerging evidence supporting robotic spleen-preserving surgery in children.
