Splenectomy

Splenectomy

home // Laproscopic Onco Surgeries

Splenectomy – Spleen Removal Surgery

What is Splenectomy?

A splenectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the spleen, an organ located in the upper left part of the abdomen. The spleen plays an important role in the body’s immune system by filtering blood, storing red blood cells, and fighting certain bacteria. However, in some conditions, removing the spleen becomes necessary to treat disease or injury.

Splenectomy can be performed as an open surgery or using minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopic or robotic surgery.

Why is a Splenectomy Performed?

Splenectomy may be required for:

  • Trauma or injury causing spleen rupture and internal bleeding
  • Enlarged spleen (splenomegaly) causing discomfort or complications
  • Blood disorders, such as:
  • Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)
  • Hemolytic anemia
  • Hereditary spherocytosis
    1. Spleen tumors or cysts
    2. Certain cancers like lymphomas or leukemia
    3. Hypersplenism – when the spleen destroys blood cells excessively

Types of Splenectomy

  1. Open Splenectomy – Traditional surgery using a larger abdominal incision.
  2. Laparoscopic Splenectomy – Minimally invasive, performed with small incisions and a camera.
  3. Robotic-Assisted Splenectomy – Advanced version of laparoscopic surgery offering greater precision.

Procedure Overview

  • Performed under general anesthesia
  • The spleen is carefully detached from surrounding organs and blood vessels
  • The procedure takes approximately 1.5 to 3 hours
  • The patient may require vaccinations before or after surgery to prevent infections

Recovery after Splenectomy

  • Hospital stay: 2–4 days (longer for open surgery)
  • Full recovery: 2–6 weeks depending on the surgical approach
  • Vaccines: Pneumococcal, Meningococcal, and Haemophilus influenzae vaccines are recommended

Patients will be monitored for infections, as the spleen helps fight certain bacteria

Possible Risks and Complications

Like all major surgeries, splenectomy carries some risks:

  • Infection or bleeding
  • Injury to nearby organs (stomach, pancreas, colon)
  • Blood clots
  • Long-term risk of certain infections (OPSI – overwhelming post-splenectomy infection)
  • Hernia or scar-related issues (rare)

Life after Splenectomy

  • Most people live healthy lives without a spleen
  • Lifelong vigilance is important to avoid infections
  • Regular check-ups and prompt treatment for fever or illness
  • Wearing a medical alert bracelet is often recommended

Why Choose Dr. Harish NL for Splenectomy?

  • Expertise in Complex & Minimally Invasive Splenectomy
  • Pre- and Post-operative Immunization Support
  • 24/7 Emergency Surgical Services
  • Compassionate, Patient-Centered Care

If you're diagnosed with a spleen condition, expert care matters.