Objective: Laparoscopic splenectomy (LS) has gained wide acceptance as a safe, effective alternative
to open splenectomy (OS) in the treatment of hematologic disorders. The aim of this study was
to compare two cohorts of patients with similar characteristics, who underwent LS and OS in a single
university teaching center.
Methods: Records were reviewed from 30 patients who underwent LS for a hematologic disease
and compared with a control group of 38 patients undergoing OS for hematologic disease. Demographics
and outcomes were recorded.
Results: There were no significant differences between the two groups with respect to accessory
spleens, blood loss, or complication rates (P > 0.05). The operation time in the LS group was significantly
longer than in the OS group (P < 0.01) and the length of hospital stay in the LS group
was significantly shorter than in the OS group (P < 0.01).
Conclusion: Laparoscopic splenectomy is likely becoming the gold standard in the surgical treatment
of hematologic diseases.
