Impact of morbid obesity on outcome of laparoscopic splenectomy

Abstract

Laparoscopic splenectomy was performed safely in obese patients (BMI > 30) with similar results to those of nonobese patients. Only in morbidly obese patients (BMI > 40) do outcomes and complications appear to be affected. Obesity should not be a contraindication to laparoscopic splenectomy.

Laparoscopic Splenectomy for Benign Hematological Disorders in Adults: A Systematic Review

“…With the progressive extension of technical feasibility, morbid obesity (body mass index; BMI>35 kg/m 2 ) is no longer considered as an absolute contraindication for LS, although unquestionably difficulties remain due to limited intra-abdominal working space and poor viewing (39).…”

Laparoscopic splenectomy: the clinical practice guidelines of the European Association for Endoscopic Surgery (EAES)

“…None of the aforementioned differences could be shown between the groups with a BMI less than 30 and those with a BMI of 30 to 40. Intraoperative blood loss was similar in all three groups (LoE 3b) [98].…”

Laparoscopic Splenectomy: 3 Ports Are Enough

“…24,25 Many laparoscopic surgeons have discussed the learning curve required for various types of laparoscopic abdominal surgery. 2,13,15,[26][27][28][29] They have hypothesized that the learning curve is associated with plateaux in operative times, and improvements in perioperative outcomes including estimated blood loss, conversion to an open procedure, complication rate, time to oral intake, and postoperative hospital stay. 26 The most critical point affecting the operative time and the occurrence of complications during LS may be the management of the splenic vessels.…”