Hand-Assisted Laparoscopic Splenectomy for Massive Splenomegaly: Comparative Study / 中国微创外科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To explore the safety, feasibility, and techniques of hand-assisted laparoscopic splenectomy (HSLS) for massive splenomegaly. Methods Between January 2005 and December 2006, 40 patients with massive splenomegaly owning to portal hypertension were treated with HSLS or open splenectomy (OS). The two groups were comparable in age, sex, hepatic function by Child classification, and size of the spleen. Results No serious complications occurred in both the groups. Compared with the OS group, patients in the HALS group had more blood loss [ (312?61) ml vs (235?105) ml, t=2.583, P=0.014], longer operation time [(95?20) min vs (73?16) min, t=3.832, P=0.000], earlier recovery of intestinal function [(48?1) h vs (98?1) h, t=-153.093, P=0.000], and shorter postoperative hospital stay [(6?2) d vs (10?2) d, t=-6.124, P=0.000]. Conclusions HSLS is feasible and safe for patients with massive splenomegaly. Despite a longer operation time, the procedure is superior in postoperative recovery.