Laparoscopic approach to splenic aneurysms

Abstract

Background Splenic artery aneurysm is a rare disease with possibly mortal complications. For years, the main method of treatment was excision of aneurysm with spleen. In recent years, several methods have been developed in order to salvage the spleen such endovascular techniques and aneurysmectomy. Objective The aim of our study was to determine the feasibility of laparoscopic aneurysmectomy with spleen salvage in cases of splenic artery aneurysm. Materials Analysis of prospectively gathered data containing records of patients operated laparoscopically due to diseases of the spleen in 1998–2016 in our department. Inclusion criteria were attempted laparoscopic aneurysmectomy with intent to salvage spleen. Results Out of 11 patients, seven patients underwent aneurysmectomy with spleen preservation, one patient had partial-splenectomy, two patients had intra-operative splenectomies and one patient had a re-operation on post-op day 1 with splenectomy. Re-operation with splenectomy was the only recorded complication. Conclusions Laparoscopic aneurysmectomy of SAA may be considered as a safe treatment method, with good short- and long-term results; however, a complete evaluation requires further research on a larger study group. It allows permanent treatment of SAA with maintaining spleen function.