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Agree toTerms and ConditionsA splenectomy surgery is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the spleen. The spleen is a small organ present just below the rib cage on the left side of the abdomen. It plays a critical role in the body's immune system by filtering the blood and fighting against certain kinds of bacteria that cause pneumonia and meningitis. However, certain conditions may necessitate its removal. These include conditions such as an enlarged spleen (splenomegaly), a ruptured spleen, certain cancers like lymphoma or leukemia, or certain disorders affecting the blood or bone marrow. The surgery can be done either as an open surgery or through a laparoscopic procedure. The type of surgery chosen usually depends on the reason for the splenectomy and the size of the spleen. After the procedure, the body can still fight infections, but the individual will be more susceptible to certain types of bacteria. Therefore, vaccinations and antibiotics are usually necessary after a splenectomy to prevent infection.
This is the traditional method of performing a splenectomy. It involves making a large incision in the abdomen through which the spleen is removed. The surgeon will close the incision using sutures or surgical staples. This method is often used when the spleen is too large to be removed through a laparoscopic procedure, or in cases of severe trauma where the spleen has ruptured and is causing internal bleeding.
This is a minimally invasive procedure in which many small incisions are created in the abdomen. The surgeon will then insert a laparoscope (a long, thin tube with a high-intensity light and a high-resolution camera at the front) into one of these incisions to guide them during the procedure. Other surgical instruments are inserted via other incisions to remove the spleen. This procedure is associated with less post-operative pain, shorter hospital stays, and faster return to normal activities compared to an open splenectomy.
In some cases, only a portion of the spleen needs to be removed. This can be done either through an open or laparoscopic procedure. A partial splenectomy may be performed in certain cases of trauma, where only a part of the spleen is damaged, or in certain disorders that affect only a portion of the spleen. This procedure allows the patient to retain some of the spleen's protective functions.
The spleen can get damaged due to various reasons. This could occur as a result of a severe injury or accident that may affect the abdomen. In such situations, the spleen might rupture, causing severe internal bleeding. A ruptured spleen requires immediate surgical removal.
Certain blood diseases can cause your spleen to enlarge. This enlargement can affect the spleen's functioning, and as a result, doctors might recommend a splenectomy. Some of the blood disorders that may necessitate a splenectomy include Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), Hereditary Spherocytosis, Thalassemia, and Sickle Cell Anemia.
Specific infections or inflammations such as mononucleosis, endocarditis, or lupus can affect your spleen, making a splenectomy necessary.
Certain cancers like lymphomas or leukemia can affect the spleen. If the cancer is confined to the spleen, a splenectomy can be a potential cure. In other cases, removing the spleen might be part of a broader treatment plan.
Prior to the surgery, doctors will conduct a thorough medical examination. This typically includes blood tests, imaging studies, and other diagnostic tests to check your health status and prepare for the operation.
Since the spleen plays a crucial role in fighting infections, patients are usually given vaccines against pneumonia, influenza, and meningitis before surgery. These vaccines help reduce the risk of infections after the splenectomy.
It is essential to follow your doctor's instructions before the surgery. These guidelines may include fasting for a certain period before the operation, stopping certain medications, and other necessary preparations.
A splenectomy is a major surgery, and it is normal to feel anxious about it. Speak to your doctor or a counselor to help address your fears and concerns. Understanding the procedure, its risks and benefits can help you mentally prepare for the surgery.
After the surgery, you will need time to recover. Plan for this period by arranging for help at home, preparing meals ahead of time, and setting up a comfortable space for rest and recovery. Also, ensure to have a follow-up appointment schedule with your doctor to monitor your recovery.
The surgeon will evaluate your overall health condition. This involves a complete physical examination, blood tests, and imaging tests like CT scans. The aim is to determine the size and position of your spleen and to detect any other health issues.
Your doctor will review the current medicines. Some drugs like blood thinners, may need to be stopped or adjusted before surgery. It is crucial to inform your doctor about any over-the-counter medications or dietary supplements you are taking.
The surgeon will discuss and explain the procedure, its potential benefits, risks, and alternative treatment options. You will be asked to sign a consent form after ensuring that all your questions and concerns have been addressed.
You will be instructed to fast, usually overnight, before the surgery. This is to prevent aspiration during anesthesia.
You will meet with an anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist who will discuss the type of anesthesia that will be used during your surgery. They will review your medical history and explain the advantages and possible risks of different types of anesthesia.
Once in the operating room, you will be given anesthesia. This could be general anesthesia, where you are completely unconscious, or regional anesthesia, where only the area to be operated on is numbed.
Once the anesthesia takes effect, the surgeon will make a cut in your abdomen to access the spleen. The spleen is then separated from its attachments and removed. The method used for the splenectomy can either be open surgery or laparoscopic surgery.
During the operation, your vital signs will be closely monitored. This includes your heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels.
Once the spleen is removed, the surgeon will securely close the incision using stitches or staples. A dressing is applied to the wound.
After the surgery, you will be shifted to a recovery room where the healthcare team will monitor your vital signs as the anesthesia wears off. Once stable, you will be transferred to a regular hospital room.
In this method, the surgeon creates a big incision in the abdomen to remove the spleen. General anesthesia is given, and the surgeon carefully separates the spleen from its attachments and removes it from the body. This is the traditional method of splenectomy and is often used when the spleen is greatly enlarged, or when the condition is complex.
This is a minimally invasive procedure in which small incisions are made in the abdomen. A laparoscope is inserted through one of the incisions. The surgeon then uses special instruments to detach the spleen and remove it. This method has a shorter recovery time and less post-operative pain than the open method.
In some cases, only a portion of the spleen may be removed. This may be done to preserve some of the spleen's functions while still treating the underlying condition.
After a splenectomy, patients usually stay in the hospital for a few days for monitoring. Pain medication will be given to manage post-operative discomfort.
Patients will need to rest and avoid heavy lifting for several weeks. Complete recovery can take up to six weeks.
The spleen plays a critical role in maintaining the health of the immune system, so patients may receive vaccinations against certain bacteria to reduce the risk of infection. Regular follow-ups with the doctor are also essential.
As with any surgery, there are risks of complications with a splenectomy like infection, bleeding, and reaction to anesthesia.
Post-splenectomy infection: The spleen is part of your immune system, helping your body fight infections. Without a spleen, you're more vulnerable to certain infections, such as pneumonia and meningitis.
Post-splenectomy sepsis: This is a severe and potentially life-threatening complication. The risk of sepsis is highest in the first two years after surgery, but the risk remains higher than normal for life.
Injury to nearby organs: During surgery, there's a risk of injury to other organs, such as the pancreas or stomach.