Our Summary
This research paper is a review of existing studies about a surgery called laparoscopic splenectomy (LS), which is a minimally invasive method to remove the spleen. This procedure is often used for people with certain blood diseases. The authors examined studies published between 2010 and 2016 and found 27 that were relevant to their review.
Their analysis shows that this type of surgery is generally safe and effective for patients with non-cancerous blood disorders. The death rate from the surgery was less than 4%, and the rate of post-surgery complications was up to 35.7%. The procedure was successfully completed without needing to switch to a more invasive method in 96% of cases. Also, more than 80% of patients saw their condition improve after the surgery.
The most common surgical approach used four small cuts on the side of the body. However, if the surgery also involved removing the gallbladder, it took longer and had more complications.
The authors conclude that laparoscopic splenectomy should be the preferred method when a spleen needs to be removed to treat blood disorders in adults. However, they also state that more high-quality studies are needed to provide stronger evidence for this recommendation.
FAQs
- What is a laparoscopic splenectomy and when is it typically used?
- What were the main findings in the studies about laparoscopic splenectomy between 2010 and 2016?
- What are the potential risks or complications associated with laparoscopic splenectomy?
Doctor’s Tip
One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about splenectomy is to follow their post-operative care instructions carefully, including avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous activity for a certain period of time to ensure proper healing. They should also be vigilant for any signs of infection or complications, such as fever, persistent pain, or difficulty breathing, and seek medical attention if any of these symptoms occur. Additionally, patients should follow up with their healthcare provider regularly to monitor their recovery progress and address any concerns.
Suitable For
Patients who are typically recommended for splenectomy include those with non-cancerous blood disorders such as idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), hereditary spherocytosis, and autoimmune hemolytic anemia. These conditions may require spleen removal in cases where other treatments have not been effective in managing symptoms.
It is important for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider to determine if splenectomy is the best course of treatment for their specific condition. The decision to undergo splenectomy should be made based on individual factors such as the severity of symptoms, response to other treatments, and overall health status.
Overall, laparoscopic splenectomy has been shown to be a safe and effective surgical approach for patients with non-cancerous blood disorders. However, it is important for healthcare providers to carefully evaluate each patient’s case and consider the potential risks and benefits of the procedure before recommending splenectomy. More research is needed to further establish the effectiveness of laparoscopic splenectomy in treating various blood disorders.
Timeline
Before splenectomy, a patient may experience symptoms such as abdominal pain, fatigue, frequent infections, and an enlarged spleen. They may undergo various tests and consultations with specialists to determine if splenectomy is necessary.
After the surgery, the patient will typically stay in the hospital for a few days for monitoring and recovery. They may experience pain at the incision sites, as well as fatigue and difficulty with certain activities. Over time, the patient’s body will adjust to not having a spleen, and they may need to receive certain vaccinations and take antibiotics to prevent infections.
Overall, the goal of splenectomy is to improve the patient’s quality of life by alleviating symptoms related to their blood disorder. With proper care and monitoring, most patients can lead a normal and healthy life after undergoing splenectomy.
What to Ask Your Doctor
Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about splenectomy include:
- What are the potential risks and complications associated with laparoscopic splenectomy?
- How long will the recovery process be after the surgery?
- Will I need to make any lifestyle changes after having my spleen removed?
- How will my immune system be affected by not having a spleen?
- Are there any long-term effects or complications I should be aware of after the surgery?
- Will I need any additional vaccinations or medications after the surgery?
- How experienced is the surgical team in performing laparoscopic splenectomy?
- Are there any alternative treatment options available for my condition?
- What can I expect in terms of pain management after the surgery?
- How soon after the surgery can I resume normal activities and work?
Reference
Authors: Moris D, Dimitriou N, Griniatsos J. Journal: In Vivo. 2017 May-Jun;31(3):291-302. doi: 10.21873/invivo.11058. PMID: 28438854