Laparoscopic splenectomy for massive splenomegaly using a Lahey bag

Background: Although the recent development of hand-assisted laparoscopic surgery (HALS) has made the laparoscopic retraction of large spleens feasible, the laparoscopic removal of massively enlarged spleens (> 1,000 g) remains a significant problem because these spleens do not fit into endoscopic bags. Consequently, in order to remove massive spleens either a large abdominal incision or morcellation of the spleen outside of an endoscopy bag is required. Methods: Two patients, with spleens weighing 2.510 g and 1.720 g, under-went laparoscopic splenectomy using a hand port to ensure safe retraction. The massive spleen was placed into a Lahey bag that was inserted into the abdomen through the hand port site. While in the Lahey bag, the spleen was removed piecemeal through the hand port site. Results: Both operations were completed laparoscopically without complications. The patients were discharged on postoperative day 2 and experienced minimal morbidity. Conclusions: The Lahey bag facilitates laparoscopic splenectomy for massive splenomegaly as even the most massive spleens will fit into a Lahey bag. A massive spleen may be removed piecemeal from the Lahey bag through the small hand port incision without risking a large abdominal incision, splenosis, or the insertion of a morcellator. (C) 2001 Excerpta Medica, Inc. All rights reserved.