Laparoscopic splenic cyst fenestration-a viable spleen preserving option

Abstract

Cystic lesions of the spleen are a rare encounter in surgical practice and are broadly split into two categories: true and false, depending upon the presence of a defined epithelial lining. True cysts can further be broken down into parasitic and non-parasitic origins while false or pseudocysts tend to develop commonly after a traumatic event. We present here a 23-year-old female who came to the clinic with symptoms of abdominal fullness, early satiety and left flank pain which was diagnosed as a large splenic cyst after radiology confirmation. The patient was prepared and underwent laparoscopic splenic cyst fenestration successfully without any complications. Laparoscopic fenestration for benign uncomplicated splenic cysts is a viable alternative to splenectomy with low rates of recurrence and less patient morbidity along with the advantage of preservation of splenic function.

Figure 1:

Axial CT scan abdomen showing cyst.

Figure 2:

Coronal CT with cyst compressing left kidney.

Figure 3:

Aspiration of cyst fluid carried out.

Figure 4:

Cauterization of inner wall of cyst attached to spleen.