The feasibility and safety of laparoscopic splenectomy for massive splenomegaly: a comparative study.

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic splenectomy used for massive splenomegaly is still controversial. The purpose of our current study was to identify the feasibility and safety of laparoscopic splenectomy for massive splenomegaly.

METHODS

From January 2006 to January 2010, laparoscopic splenectomy was performed on 33 patients with massive splenomegaly in our hospital, compared with 29 patients who received open splenectomy (group 2) and 48 patients with normal-size spleens who underwent laparoscopic splenectomy (group 3). Perioperative outcomes of these patients were compared.

RESULTS

Compared with patients in group 2, the patients in group 1 required more operative time, less blood transfusion, and a shorter postoperative hospital stay; furthermore, patients in group 1 had less estimated blood loss and fewer complications. No statistically significant difference was found in the patients' spleen volume and spleen weight. Group 1 had statistically significant differences in operative time, estimated blood loss, postoperative hospital stay, spleen volume, and spleen weight compared with patients in group 3. No significant differences were found in the conversion, blood transfusion, or complication rate.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic splenectomy is a technically feasible and safe procedure for splenomegaly.