The aim of the study is presentation of operative technique and early results of laparoscopic splenectomy in 15 cases of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) patients resistant to typical steroid therapy. There were 7 women and 8 men in age 16-58 years (mean 32.6 years). Preoperative investigations revealed accessory spleens in two patients. Platelets count at the time of qualifying patients to splenectomy varied from 7-35 g/L and after preoperative treatment (prednisone 1 mg/kg--6 patients, methylprednisone 25 mg/kg--5 patients, immunoglobulins 2.0/kg--2 patients, immunoglobulins and methylprednisone--2 patients) varied from 36-205 g/L. Splenic length was from 8-17 cm. The lateral approach and 4-5 ports were utilized in all cases. Pneumoperitoneum with value of 12-14 mmHg of carbon dioxide was created using an open technique. First step of the procedure was to free spleno-colic ligament, then spleno-reno attachment. In all cases the hilus artery, vein and short gastric vessels were clipped and divided by Endo GIA stapler 30 or 60 mm and clips. Spleens were removed from the abdomen cavity in the plastic bag after manual/forceps crushing inside the bag. Intraoperative bleeding occurred in 2 patients (20%). Blood loss was about 800 and 1000 ml respectively. The mean operative time was 170 min (140-300 min). Spleen weight was 210 g average. In 3 cases conversion to open approach was needed because of injury of splenic vessels (2 pts.) and difficulty in removing spleen--in 1 patient. Post operative course was uneventful in every 10 patients. Mean hospital stay was 5.8 days. Increase in platelet count was observed in 14 patients on the second postoperative day to 60-291 g/L. One patient did not response as expected. No early postoperative complications were observed.
Conclusion: Laparoscopic splenectomy may be considered as a safe and feasible procedure in selected patients with ITP without long-term improvement after typical conservative treatment.