The effect of laparoscopic splenectomy for idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura

Objective: To investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of laparoscopic splenectomy in patients with refractory idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) resistant to medical management. Methods: A retrospectively study was done on clinical data and follow-up of 12 cases treated with totally laparoscopic splenectomy. Results: Laparoscopic splenectomy were successfully conducted in all cases with an operation time of 120～240 min (mean,140 min) and estimated intraoperative blood loss of 80～400 ml (mean,150 ml). Postoperatively,there were no severe complications occurred in all cases. Ecchymosis and petechia disappeared. After 6 months of following-up, 11 cases were cured (91.7%) and 1 case had obvious effect (8.3%). The BPC count of 11 cases exceeded 100×109/L. Conclusion: Use of laparoscopic splenectomy for refractory ITP is safe, feasible and effective. This therapeutical method also have quicker recovery, less bleeding and complications.