A new technique in splenic preservation and transposition to extraperitoneum (STEP)

Abstract

Splenic preservation in trauma is necessary due to the splenic role in human immunity. There are advances in the management of splenic injury regarding to preservation of spleen. Nonoperative management and use of different surgical techniques and synthetic materials to stop bleeding have been experienced and reported. They have advantages and some disadvantages. In Iran we have used a new technique to preserve the spleen (splenic transposition to extraperitoneum "STEP") after trauma. We incised the peritoneum and made a cavity in the extraperitoneum in the midaxillary line at the 10th to 11th ribs level and transposed the spleen to the extraperitoneal position. This technique was successful in five patients.