Laparoscopic splenectomy by secondary pedicle division strategy: a highly cost-effective method

Background Laparoscopic splenectomy (LS) shows many advantages compared with open surgery except for the high cost. This study was aimed to recommend secondary pedicle division strategy as a method with high cost-effectiveness. Methods From January 2003 to June 2005, 14 consecutive patients underwent laparoscopic splenectomy. The splenic pedicle was controlled by secondary pedicle division strategy in 8 cases and by Endo-GIA in the other 6 cases. A retrospective study was carried out to evaluate the operative time, blood loss, time to diet, operative morbidity, postoperative stay, and operative cost. Results LS was performed successfully in a total of 14 cases. There was no significant difference between the two strategies in operative time, blood loss, time to diet, operative morbidity and postoperative stay. The operative cost of secondary pedicle division strategy group (RMB 8354.38 +/- 752.10) was significantly lower than that of Endo-GIA group (RMB 11053.33 +/- 602.27) (P<0.01). Conclusions Laparoscopic splenectomy by secondary pedicle division strategy is a safe, effective and economical procedure with the value of popularization in developing countries.