Laparoscopic Splenic Biopsy in Dogsand Cats: 15 Cases (2006-2008)

This retrospective study describes a technique and evaluates outcome associated with laparoscopic splenic biopsy in dogsand cats. Medical records of dogs (n = 10) and cats (n = 5) that had a laparoscopic splenic biopsy performed as part of theirdiagnostic evaluation for systemic disease were evaluated. Splenic biopsies were performed with the patient in dorsalrecumbency using a two-portal approach. In some cases, concurrent organ biopsy was also performed. A pair of 5 mmcup biopsy forceps was used for biopsy collection, and an absorbable gelatin hemostatic sponge was placed at the biopsysite to aid in hemostasis. All patients recovered without major complications. Conversion to an open surgical approach wasnot required. Median survival time was 180 days, and nine patients were alive at the time of manuscript preparation. Fourpatients were diagnosed with neoplasia; however, only one had neoplasia involving the spleen. Median survival time for thenonneoplasia group (n = 11) was 300 days. Eight of those patients were alive at time of manuscript preparation. Minimalmorbidity was observed in this cohort of clinical patients. Histopathology may be preferred over cytology in some clinicalsituations, and laparoscopic splenic biopsy provides a minimally invasive diagnostic option.