Overview

Splenectomy is a surgical procedure where the spleen is removed from the body. The spleen is an organ located on the left side of the body, beneath the ribs and plays a key role in filtering blood and fighting infections. This surgery may be required for various reasons, including spleen damage, tumors, infections or certain blood disorders.

Why Splenectomy Treatment is Required?

• Injury or Trauma: If the spleen is ruptured due to an injury, it may need to be removed to prevent life-threatening complications.
• Spleen Diseases: Conditions such as spleen cancer, enlarged spleen (splenomegaly), or blood disorders like thrombocytopenia may require spleen removal.
• Infections: Chronic or severe infections affecting the spleen, such as malaria or sepsis, may make splenectomy necessary.
• Blood Disorders: Certain conditions like sickle cell disease or hereditary spherocytosis can affect the spleen, leading to the need for removal.

Key Advantages of Splenectomy Treatment

• Prevents Life-Threatening Complications: Removing a damaged spleen can help prevent excessive bleeding or rupture.
• Relieves Symptoms: Spleen removal can alleviate symptoms of splenomegaly, such as discomfort under the ribs or pain on the left side of the body.
• Improves Quality of Life: Treats conditions like blood disorders or infections, leading to better overall health.
• Reduces Risk of Infection: In cases of spleen cancer, removing the spleen can prevent cancer spread.

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before Splenectomy Treatment

• Consult Your Doctor: Understand the reasons for the surgery and discuss any risks or alternatives.
• Get Vaccinated: Since the spleen helps fight infections, you may need vaccinations (like pneumonia and meningitis vaccines) before surgery.
• Avoid Certain Foods: After the procedure, avoid raw foods and unpasteurized products to lower infection risks.
• Fasting: You may be asked to fast for 6-8 hours before surgery.
• Blood Tests: Your doctor will likely order tests to assess your overall health and the function of other organs, like the liver.

How Splenectomy Treatment is Performed?

• Anesthesia: You will be put under general anesthesia, meaning you’ll be asleep during the surgery.
• Incision: A small incision is made in the abdomen, or in some cases, laparoscopic techniques are used for smaller cuts.
• Removal of Spleen: The spleen is carefully removed through the incision.
• Post-Surgery Care: After the spleen is removed, your doctors will monitor your recovery, ensuring no complications such as infection or bleeding.

What You Can Expect Before, During and After Procedure?

1. Before the Procedure:

Detailed consultations and possibly pre-surgery vaccines.

Fasting for the recommended time.

Blood tests to ensure your suitability for surgery.

2. During the Procedure:

General anesthesia is administered.

Surgeons will remove the spleen through a safe incision.

The surgery typically takes 1-2 hours.

3. After the Procedure:

Hospital stay for 2-3 days for recovery.

Regular monitoring for any complications.

Medications may be prescribed to manage pain and prevent infection.

Risk and Potential Complications

• Infection: The spleen plays a critical role in fighting infections, so after surgery, you may be at a higher risk of infections.
• Bleeding: Although rare, some patients may experience internal bleeding during or after surgery.
• Blood Clots: Post-surgery, there is a small risk of developing blood clots.
• Immune System Issues: The removal of the spleen can weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight infections.
• Pain or Discomfort: Some people experience pain or discomfort on the left side of the body under the ribs following surgery.

Results/Outcomes

• Recovery Time: Most patients recover within a few weeks, although some may take longer.
• Life Expectancy: Many people live healthy lives without a spleen, but they may need to take extra precautions against infections and may require additional vaccinations.
• Improved Health: For those with blood disorders or spleen-related issues, removing the spleen often results in better health and symptom relief.