Emergency laparoscopic splenectomy for a grade-V splenic injury following blunt abdominal trauma: A case report.

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

The utilization of laparoscopy in severe splenic injuries following blunt abdominal trauma is limited because of difficulties encountered due to ongoing bleeding, chances of missed injury, and lack of experience.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report a young male with polytrauma (head injury, haemothorax, femur fracture, Grade V splenic injury) who underwent a successful laparoscopic splenectomy on day 3 following the failure of conservative management of grade V blunt splenic injury involving the hilum.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

The utility of laparoscopy in the management of blunt trauma is controversial besides several series have shown acceptable outcomes for both solid organ and visceral injuries in experienced hands. Furthermore, there are several reports describing the utility of the laparoscopic approach for isolated splenic injuries in stable patients.

CONCLUSION

The utility of the laparoscopic approach for this patient was successful without major challenges during the procedure. The key initial step was achieving complete hemostasis as early as possible.