Laparoscopic splenectomy for treatment of splenic hemangiosarcoma in a dog.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To report laparoscopic splenectomy in a dog. STUDY DESIGN: Clinical report. ANIMALS: Mixed breed dog (n=1). METHODS: Hemangiosarcoma was diagnosed by ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration of a splenic mass in an 11-year-old, 30 kg, mixed breed dog. No metastatic disease was identified during complete staging (chest radiographs, echocardiogram, and abdominal ultrasonography); however, cystic calculi were identified. Laparoscopic splenectomy using Ligasure V was performed through 3 portals and the calculi were removed by laparoscopic-assisted cystoscopy. RESULTS: Total surgical time was 2 hours and for laparoscopic splenectomy, 65 minutes. The celiotomy incision for splenic removal was 7 cm. The dog recovered uneventfully and was ambulatory 2 hours postoperatively. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopy with Ligasure V facilitated successful removal of a spleen with a 3 cm mass. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Laparoscopic splenectomy in dogs is feasible for removal of a normal-sized spleen with a moderate-sized mass.