[Videolaparoscopic treatment of splenic injuries. A study of 5 cases]

When splenic trauma does not require an emergency splenectomy in order to achieve hemostasis, the current policy is either observation under close surveillance, with transfusions if necessary, or conservative surgical procedure through laparotomy. Videolaparoscopic approach has the advantage of achieving in the same procedure, complete evacuation of the hemoperitoneum, full investigation of the abdominal cavity and repair of the damaged spleen.

Over a 4-year period, five patients aged 27.3 years on average, with severe splenic trauma but no major hemodynamic disturbance, were operated on by emergency laparoscopy. The diagnosis of splenic lesion had been confirmed preoperatively by ultrasonography. The procedure performed by open laparoscopy included evacuation of the hemoperitoneum and blood clots and splenic hemostasis which was achieved by the use of electrocoagulation and biological glue, associated in three cases with omentoplasty. Drains were inserted systematically.

The average length of operation was 75 min. There were no cases of conversion, nor mortality, no morbidity. The average duration of hospitalization was 10 days. No blood transfusions were required. A CT-scan was performed immediately in the postoperative course and served as the baseline for comparison during the follow-up. There were no reinterventions. The longest follow-up was 4 years and the mean follow-up 2.5 years. Laboratory tests or isotopic imaging did not detect any change in splenic function.

In specific defined circumstances, videolaparoscopic repair of splenic trauma is justified provided that careful attention is paid to the patient's condition.