New partial splenectomy technique using radiofrequency ablation technology

Cytoreductive Surgery and Perioperative Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy Experience in Peritoneal Carcinomatosis: Single-Center Analysis of 180 Cases

Background

In peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC), increased life span and disease-free survival times are shown in patients with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) and early postoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (EPIC) following cytoreductive surgery (SRC). In this study, our main objective was to present our experience of performing SRC and perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC and EPIC) on patients with PC, in light of the literature.

Methods

Demographic data, follow-up results, peritoneal carcinomatosis index (PCI), completeness of cytoreduction (CCR) score, and morbidity and mortality rates of 180 patients treated with SRC + HIPEC + EPIC for PC at the Department of Surgical Oncology at Sivas Cumhuriyet University between January 2008 and July 2020 were analyzed retrospectively.

Results

Distribution of 180 PC cases according to primary organs included 53 ovarian, 39 colorectal, 33 stomach, 25 primary peritoneum, 10 uterus, 10 tuba, five soft tissue, and five appendix originated carcinoma. The average PCI of the cases detected preoperatively was 21 (5-30). Completeness of cytoreduction scores of CCR-0 in 102 cases, CCR-1 in 67 cases, CCR-2 in eight cases, and CCR-3 in three cases was obtained. Median operation time was 300 (200-540) minutes. Perioperative morbidity rate was 47.0%, and perioperative mortality rate was 13.5%.

Conclusion

The peritonectomy procedure is a difficult, long-lasting, troublesome intervention, but it is the most important treatment option with acceptable morbidity and mortality rates in patients selected for PC treatment in experienced centers.

A new technique for partial splenectomy with radiofrequency technology

The advantage of partial splenectomy is the preservation of its immunologic function. In this series, 8 patients underwent a spleen preservation procedure with radiofrequency. Four of the partial splenectomy procedures were performed in elective situations, whereas the other 4 cases were performed to control traumatic bleeding in emergency situations. A harrow-like radiofrequency probe with 6 needles was applied to the spleen, and the division of the splenic parenchyma was completed using a surgical scalpel through the midline of the ablated tissue. This safe, fast, and simple technique allows for preservation of splenic function with minimum blood loss.