Combined Laparoscopic Splenectomy and Cholecystectomy in Pediatric Patients: A Three-Port Technique

Abstract

The purpose of this report is to describe novel techniques using only three trocars for combined laparoscopic splenectomy and cholecystectomy. Trocars are placed intraumbilically, in the right midclavicular line, and slightly lateral to the left midclavicular line. Five children underwent combined laparoscopic cholecystectomy and splenectomy during which these three trocar sites were used. The operative time averaged 89 min (range 70–110). There were no intraoperative or postoperative complications, and no cases were converted to open procedures. No child required a transfusion. This technique represents a change from five or six trocars in combined splenectomy/cholecystectomy to only three trocars without an increase in operative time or complication rate.