TECHNICAL ASPECTS OF LAPAROSCOPIC SPLENECTOMY IN CHILDREN

Different authors reported about their experiences in laparoscopic spl enectomy. The preparation of vessels and ligaments are feasable withou t major problems, Nevertheless the handling of the organ during the op eration and during splenic extraction can be very difficult, especiall y in larger organs, The authors report experience with the technique o f laparoscopic splenectomy and describe a new technical aspect in hand ling the spleen during this procedure. A loop of an umbilical band is used for retracting the organ during the preparation and placing the s pleen into a sterile bag for the removal of the organ, This device hel ps prevent damages to the capsule caused by forceps, Large organs can be placed into the pelvis, and the bag is placed and opened in the upp er abdomen, The authors used this technique successfully in seven pati ents. The results are compared with previous experiences. Copyright (C ) 1997 by W.B. Saunders Company.