Laparoscopic splenectomy.

Splenectomy in childhood usually is required for hematologic disorders such as hereditary spherocytosis, immune thrombocytopenic purpura, or sickle cell disease. The laparoscopic approach for splenectomy in children has been developed and advanced over the past 5 years. New techniques and equipment allow the procedure to be performed safely and effectively. This article details the technique and reports the results of 63 infants, children, and adolescents who underwent laparoscopic splenectomy for hematologic disorders. Although operating times were longer than for open splenectomy, the narcotic requirement was less and length of stay was shorter.