How we do a bloodless partial splenectomy

Partial splenectomy and Tru-cut biopsy are not routinely practiced because of the lack of vascular control to arrest bleeding. Using radiofrequency energy to coagulate the resection margin and biopsy tract, a 74-year-old woman with a tumor in the lower pole of the spleen underwent partial splenectomy and Tru-Cut biopsy of the spleen. Hemostasis Was excellent. Blood loss was minimal and the patient was discharged with a functioning spleen. This new technique may allow safe and bloodless partial splenic resection and Tru-cut biopsy of the spleen, which might reduce the number of splenectomies performed and the consequent difficulties for the patient that can arise. (C) 2003 Excerpta Medica, Inc. All rights reserved.