Simsek reported factors predictive of mortality following a non-traumatic splenectomy. These can help to identify a patient who may require more aggressive or alternative management. The author is from Inonu University in Malatya, Turkey.
Patient selection: age >= 18 years, non-traumatic splenectomy
Outcome: death regarded as the direct result of the splenectomy
Predictors of mortality from multivariate analysis:
(1) hematological malignancy (OR 7.2)
(2) emergency surgery (OR 8.3)
(3) leukocytosis (OR 1.1, cutoff unspecified)
An early intervention to avoid emergency surgery is beneficial.
Additional factors from univariate analysis:
(1) older age (>= 60 years)
(2) neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (> 8)
(3) open surgical technique (vs laparoscopic)
(4) transfusion of blood components
(5) anemia
