Laparoscopic splenectomy: evolution and current status

The aim of this review is to assess the indications for, and surgical approach to, laparoscopic splenectomy (LS) and to propose a recommendation for the surgical approach to LS. The reports of LS were reviewed with a detailed analysis of indications, surgical technique, and clinical outcome. Thirty-two articles including a total of 643 patients (549 adults and 94 children) were published between August 1994 and May 1997, with a mean of 20 cases per report. LS is recommended if the spleen has a maximum diameter of 20 cm. Compared to the open procedure, there are fewer perioperative complications, less morbidity, and a shorter hospital stay. The disadvantages of LS are longer operation times and less sensitivity in identifying accessory spleens. LS is not the operation of choice for hypersplenism and traumatic splenic injury.