Delayed splenic rupture complicating laparoscopic cholecystectomy - case report and review

Summary

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is well established as the preferred surgical treatment In patients with uncomplicated cholelithiasis. Although morbidity and mortality are low, major complications occasionally occur. We report a case of delayed splenic rupture complicating an otherwise uneventful laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The aetiology was disruption of the splenic capsule by traction on perisplenic adhesions caused by use of the pneumoperitoneum or occurring during removal of the gall bladder through the epigastric port. Delayed splenic haemorrhage is a potential complication for any patient undergoing laparoscopic surgery and should be considered if a patient develops signs of bleeding post-operatively.

Keywords:

• laparoscopic cholecystectomy
• spleen
• post-operative complications
• adhesions
• haemorrhage
• pneumoperitoneum