Transumbilical single-incision laparoscopy surgery splenectomy plus pericaudial devascularization in one case with portal hypertension: the first report.

Objective: Single-incision laparoscopy surgery (SILS) has rapidly developed as both a cosmetic advantage of natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery and a standard surgical procedure. In this article, the authors report on the new technique of SILS splenectomy plus pericaudial devascularization with conventional laparoscopic instruments.

Methods: The technique of SILS splenectomy plus pericaudial devascularization in one patient with portal hypertension was introduced.

Results: The procedure was feasible with conventional laparoscopic instruments. Operative time was 240 minutes, and blood loss was 350 mL. No intraoperative or postoperative complications, such as secondary hemorrhage or pancreatic leakage, were recorded. The patient was fully recovered, and the single umbilical scar was well healed.

Conclusions: SILS splenectomy plus pericaudial devascularization is feasible when performed by experienced laparoscopic surgeons. It may have the same cosmetic advantage as natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery and may offer the safety of conventional laparoscopic operation. As far as the authors are aware, this is the first report.