BACKGROUND: The aim of this study is to determine the feasibility, reability and safety of the subtotal splenectomy performed by laparoscopic means, comparing these data with those obtained by mean of laparotomic splenectomy. METHODS: An experimental study was conduced in accordance with the principles of the International Guiding for Biomedical Research Involving Animals. Fourteen adult mongrel dogs of both sexes were divided into two groups (n = 7): Group 1 - Laparoscopic subtotal splenectomy, preserving the upper pole supplied by splenogastric vessels; the splenic section, haemostasis and closure was performed with a 45 mm linear laparoscopic surgical stapler. Group 2 - Total splenectomy was performed through a median laparotomy. After three months, we accomplished haematological, immunological and scintigraphic exams in all animals. Sections of the remnant spleens, livers and lynph nodes were histologically processed. RESULTS: Blood loss was minimal and all animals survived to operation and during the three months follow-up. Reduction (p < 0.005) of the platelets was verified in the Group 1. The rest of the haematological mean values remained normal. The remnant spleen, liver and lymph nodes showed normal histological aspects, with increasing amounts of polymorphonuclear cells observed in both groups. CONCLUSION: Size It is feasible and safe to perform subtotal splenectomy by laparoscopic means in dog.
Spleen; Splenectomy; Laparoscopy; Organ preservation; Models, animals
