Understanding Laparoscopic Splenectomy:

Splenectomy, the removal of the spleen, becomes a necessity when the spleen is afflicted by disease or trauma-induced rupture leading to internal bleeding. Positioned beneath the left rib cage near the stomach, the spleen serves vital functions, including combatting infections and filtering out aged blood cells. Laparoscopic Splenectomy, a keyhole technique, offers a minimally invasive approach to address spleen-related conditions.

Why Opt for Laparoscopic Splenectomy?

Dr. Prasad Neelam sheds light on the primary reasons for opting for Laparoscopic Splenectomy:

1. Traumatic Rupture: In cases of abdominal trauma causing spleen rupture, Laparoscopic Splenectomy becomes a crucial intervention to halt internal bleeding.

2. Enlarged Spleen: Conditions leading to an abnormal enlargement of the spleen, causing pain and blood abnormalities, find relief through Laparoscopic Splenectomy.

3. Blood Disorders: Certain blood disorders, such as sickle cell anemia, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, and thalassemia, may necessitate spleen removal when other treatment modalities prove ineffective.

4. Infections and Inflammation: Accumulation of pus around the spleen leading to infection and inflammation can be effectively treated with Laparoscopic Splenectomy.

5. Cancer Treatment: Some cancers, including Hodgkin’s lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, hairy cell leukemia, and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, may see improved outcomes with the removal of the spleen.

The Laparoscopic Splenectomy Procedure:

Dr. Prasad Neelam outlines the steps involved in Laparoscopic Splenectomy:

1. Anesthesia Administration: The patient receives anesthesia before the surgical procedure begins.  

2. Laparoscope Insertion: A laparoscope is inserted through an incision, providing the surgeon with a visual guide within the abdomen.

3. Carbon Dioxide Introduction: Carbon dioxide gas is infused into the abdomen through another incision, creating space for surgical maneuvers.

4. Spleen Disconnection and Removal: The surgeon disconnects the spleen from neighboring organs and carefully removes it.

5. Closure of Incisions: Post-removal, the incisions are closed. In some cases, a drain tube may be left temporarily to facilitate fluid drainage.

Post-Operative Precautions and Considerations:

Dr. Prasad Neelam emphasizes the importance of post-operative care after Laparoscopic Splenectomy:

1. Immunization Precautions: Prior to surgery, especially in elective cases, patients are administered certain vaccines a week before the operation to safeguard against infections.

2. Caution in Children: Given the spleen’s role in immune development, splenectomy is cautiously approached in children unless absolutely essential. Serious infections, albeit rare in adults, require careful monitoring.

3. Vigilance for Minor Infections: Post-surgery, individuals should remain vigilant for minor infections like sore throat and fever, particularly in children, where the risk of sudden flares is higher.

4. Emergency vs. Elective Procedures: Laparoscopic Splenectomy is generally safe for elective indications. In emergency scenarios, such as trauma-induced massive bleeding, it serves as a life-saving procedure.

5. Infection Risk Mitigation: As the spleen plays a crucial role in immunity, patients must be cautious about infections, and any signs of infection, even minor, should be promptly addressed.