Open versus laparoscopic splenectomy for idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura: clinical and economic analysis.

Background: Since 1991, laparoscopic splenectomy (LS) has gained acceptance in the treatment of hematologic disorders, including idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). Several studies suggest that LS provides benefits over open splenectomy (OS). However, study design flaws hinder formal technology assessment.

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed medical and administrative records of patients who underwent splenectomy for ITP between January 1995 and December 2000 to compare clinical and economic outcomes associated with LS and OS.

Results: Eighty-six patients were identified; 42 underwent an attempted LS and 44 had OS. Preoperative patient characteristics were similar between groups. Mean operative and anesthesia times for LS and OS were 167 and 201 minutes and 119 and 151 minutes, respectively (P <.001). Overall transfusion and postoperative complication rates were similar between groups. On average, LS patients required 1.2 fewer days of parenteral analgesia and were able to tolerate a general diet 1.7 days earlier. Mean postoperative stay was 2 days lower for LS patients and mean total direct costs did not differ by surgical method (US dollars 8134 vs US dollars 8200).

Conclusions: This observational study shows that LS is safe and offers advantages over OS: less postoperative pain, earlier general diet tolerance, and shorter hospital stay. These benefits are obtained at no significant additional cost.