Laparoscopic Excision of Splenic Cysts: A Comparison to the Open Approach

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcomes following excision of splenic cysts in children.

Methods: A retrospective chart review of all patients who underwent excision of a splenic cyst between 1990 and 2007 was performed. Age, cyst etiology, cyst size, preoperative imaging, and operative approach were evaluated. Outcome variables included length of postoperative hospitalization, cyst recurrence, postoperative imaging, the histologic lining of the cyst, and the need for additional procedures.

Results: During this 17-year period, 9 patients underwent excision of a splenic cyst. Four underwent an open operation and 5 had a laparoscopic procedure. In the open group, 2 patients underwent splenectomy, one patient had a partial splenectomy, and one cyst was aspirated and marsupialized. In the laparoscopic group, 4 patients underwent complete excision of the cyst and 1 underwent resection of the outer wall. The mean age was 12.3 years. Computed tomography was performed preoperatively in 8 patients and one child had an ultrasound study. The most common symptom was abdominal pain in 6 patients. Four patients had a history of recent abdominal trauma. The mean length of postoperative hospitalization was 2.75 days for the open group and 1.6 days for the laparoscopic cohort. One patient in the laparoscopic group had a recurrence. To date, no additional operations have been performed.

Conclusions: Laparoscopic splenic cyst excision is comparable to open cyst excision and results in a decreased length of postoperative hospitalization.

Key words

splenic cyst - laparoscopy - children

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