Splenectomy

Surgical removal of the spleen. The spleen is an organ located in the upper left part of the abdomen behind the stomach. The spleen filters blood to remove bacteria, parasites, and other organisms that can cause infection. It also makes and stores blood.

Parts of the Body Involved

Spleen

Reasons for Procedure

  • Severe trauma to or rupture of the spleen
  • Enlargement of the spleen (splenomegaly)
  • Blood disorders, such as idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura and hereditary spherocytosis, elliptocytosis, and thalassemia
  • Myelofibrosis (abnormal formation of fibrous tissue in the bone marrow)
  • Splenic abscess
  • Ruptured splenic artery
  • Hodgkin disease and non-Hodgkin lymphoma
  • Diseased spleen due to a disorder, such as leukemia, HIV, Felty's syndrome, and Banti's disease
  • Benign or cancerous tumors
  • Thrombosis (blood clot) in the splenic vein, which can occur with esophageal varices
  • Liver disease, specifically cirrhosis
  • Spleen transplant rejection

Risk Factors for Complications during the Procedure

  • Obesity
  • Smoking
  • Poor nutrition
  • Recent or chronic illness
  • Diabetes
  • Old age
  • Pre-existing heart or lung disease

What to Expect

Prior to Procedure

Your doctor will likely do the following:
  • Physical exam
  • Blood and urine tests
  • Review of medications
  • X-rays of abdomen
  • CT scan

Outcome

Recovery time may vary according to the extent of the injuries and any underlying disease or condition. On average, allow about 4 weeks for complete healing.

Splenectomy should allow your body to produce a normal number of red blood cells and platelets; if you've had pain from an enlarged spleen, this should improve.

Other cells in the body will take over the functions of the removed spleen. However, without a spleen, you are at an increased risk for the development of serious infections, especially those caused by pneumococci. Unless you have already had it, you should have a pneumonia vaccination and you will need a booster in 5-10 years. Children who have this operation may be given preventative antibiotics until age 16.

Always let any doctor who is treating you know that you do not have a spleen. Carry a national splenectomy card, which most hospital hematology departments can give you. When traveling, take special precautions against malaria and other infections that can cause a threat.

Call Your Doctor If Any of the Following Occurs

  • Signs of infection, including fever and chills
  • Redness, swelling, increasing pain, excessive bleeding, or discharge from the incision site
  • Cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, or severe nausea or vomiting
  • New, unexplained symptoms