[Splenectomy for hematologic disease in patients over 70 years of age. Apropos of 38 cases]

A retrospective series of 38 splenectomies performed in patients over 70 for haematology diseases is reported. There were no post-operative deaths and 8 patients (21%) had complications which resolved favourably. Paradoxically, mortality and morbidity were lower in elderly patients although the difference was not statistically significant. No factor predictive of post-operative outcome was found. It was concluded that age is not a contraindication although the clinical situation is a predominant factor in patient selection.