Assisted laparoscopic splenectomy: current concept for treatment of splenic hemangiosarcoma in dogs

Background: Hemangiosarcoma (HSA) is a common devastating malignant splenic tumor with high mortalities in dogs. Laparoscopic splenectomy (LS) is safe and gold standard technique for diseases required splenectomy. However, LS operation is a sensitive approach, which requires a restricted control for the vascular sealing procedures. Aims: We modified the LS technique through the application of hemostatic clips assisted-LS as an improved approach for the treatment of splenic HSA. Methods: Twelve dogs were admitted to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Zagazig University, Egypt for investigation of splenic HSA. Abdominal ultrasonography reveals the presence of large hypoechoic splenic masses with no further abnormalities within the peritoneal cavity. Thoracic radiographs, hematological assays, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and histopathological investigations were done. Results: Hemostatic clips assisted-LS showed no major intra or post-operative complications. Laboratory analysis revealed anemia with an increase in TNF-alpha. Significant increase in platelets count with a slight increase in TNF-alpha was detected post-operative. Conclusion: Application of the improved hemostatic clips-assisted-LS is cost effective, with shorter operative time, feasible method for vessel sealing, as well as having few complications during the HAS treatment in dogs.