Retrospective investigation of patients undergoing splenectomy: Our 8-year clinical experience in a single center

OBJECTIVE: Elective splenectomy is often performed due to hematological diseases. In this study, we aimed to investigate the splenectomy procedures performed in our clinic under emergency and elective conditions by analyzing the surgical techniques applied, surgical indications, and the clinical and demographic data of the patients, while seeking to discuss this subject, which holds a significant place in general surgical practice, in light of current literature. METHODS: Patients who underwent splenectomy surgery in the general surgery clinic of a tertiary care hospital between September 2016 and September 2024 were included in the study. Clinical and demographic data of the patients were collected retrospectively through the hospital information management system records. RESULTS: The mean age of 89 patients included in the study was 41.0 +/- 18.8 years (18-76 years). The male/female ratio was 1.3/1. The most common indication for splenectomy was trauma (38.2%). This was followed by mass (29.2%), splenomegaly (14.6%), and immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) (14.6%). Of the patients, 62.9% underwent open surgery, while 37.1% were operated on using the laparoscopic technique. Of the patients, 57.3% underwent elective surgery, while emergency surgery was planned for 42.7%. CONCLUSION: While splenectomy is a life-saving intervention in emergency conditions, it has become the most important treatment in some hematological diseases. Firstly, accurate surgical indication and the selection of an appropriate surgical technique tailored to the patient are of critical importance. There are still controversial issues in the current literature regarding the indications for splenectomy and the surgical technique to be applied.