Why is there an open approach and a laparoscopic approach?
The laparoscopic approach was introduced in the early 1990s based on the success observed with laparoscopic gallbladder removal. Studies to date have shown less pain, earlier return to normal activities and earlier return to work for the laparoscopic approach when compared to the open approach. It is important to realize that these differences are measured in days to weeks, not months. It is also important to recognize that everyone is different with regards to the perception of pain and occupation. One person may undergo an open splenectomy and be back to work in a week while another person undergoing a laparoscopic splenectomy only returns in 6 weeks. Which is a better approach, the open or the laparoscopic? The actual operation performed during a laparoscopic or open approach is the same; namely, removal of the spleen. In this regard, the laparoscopic approach would appear to be better given the fact that recovery is quicker, discharge from the hospital is earlier and the cosmetic r
