Before starting a laparoscopic splenectomy, what should the surgical team inspect?

Before starting a laparoscopic splenectomy, it is essential for the surgical team to ensure that specimen containers are available. This is critical because the spleen, once removed, must be placed in a sterile container for safe transport and proper handling. Adequate preparation for specimen collection is vital to avoid any delays or complications once the spleen is excised.

Having the appropriate containers readily available also reflects good practice in maintaining the organization and efficiency of the surgical procedure. This aspect is crucial in both open and laparoscopic surgeries where specimen handling is addressed, as it helps to avoid contamination and ensures adherence to protocols and regulations regarding specimen management.

While reviewing the medical history of the patient, confirming the surgeon’s preferred lighting, and ensuring backup surgical instruments are present are all important tasks, they do not specifically address the immediate logistical needs following the excision of the spleen, making the availability of specimen containers the foremost concern at this stage of the procedure.