Clinical application of the transumbilical single-incision laparoscopic splenectomy: single center experience

Abstract

Objective To summarize the clinical experience of the transumbilical single-incision laparoscopic splenectomy and to improve the effectiveness and safety of laparoscopic splenic surgery. Methods From March 2010 to January 2013, 13 cases of transumbilical single-incision laparoscopic splenectomy were operated successfully, including 1 case with traumatic rupture of the spleen, 1 splenic artery aneurysm, 1 idiopathic thrombocytopenia, 1 congenital hemolytic anemia with gallbladder stone, 2 of splenic hemangioma, 2 of splenic cyst and 5 of hypersplenism secondary to portal hypertension. Results All the operations went smoothly with mean operation time of (165±41) min, mean blood loss (298±25.8) ml, and mean postoperative hospital stay (8.8±2.7) days. 1 patient had a postoperative complication with hemoperitoneum. No other complications occurred in this small series. All patients recovered well and had a cosmetic surgical incision. Conclusion Transumbilical single-incision laparoscopic splenectomy is safe and feasible for experienced laparoscopic surgeons. Key words: Single-incision laparoscopy; Spleen disease; Splenectomy