What You Should Know About Splenectomy

Splenectomy is a surgical procedure intended to remove an organ known as the spleen. Although humans can live without spleens, doctors only remove them when absolutely necessary. After all, the spleen is still part of the system that defends our bodies against infections. Under what circumstances is the spleen removed and how is the procedure performed?

Why Remove the Spleen

The spleen may not always have to be removed even when there is some damage to it. A surgeon who may also work with other experts to determine a patient’s condition is the best judge on whether a spleen can still be repaired or surgery is really needed. Given below are some possible reasons that may require the removal of the spleen”

• The spleen has to be removed if injury to the chest or abdomen results in severe spleen rupture. Non removal of the spleen in this case may lead to too much blood leaking into the abdomen which may cause death.

• If a primary cancer affects the spleen, it may be removed to prevent the spread of cancer cells. Sometimes the spleen may also be taken out if a patient has lymphoma. This will allow your doctor to determine the extent or stage of your cancer. This kind of splenectomy has a similar idea or concept to sentinel lymph node removal.

• Certain autoimmune disorders affecting the blood may require splenectomy. One example is idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura in which platelets are mistakenly eliminated in the spleen. Some autoimmune hemolytic conditions also result in the immune systems mistakenly attacking red blood cells and may require splenectomy.

• Myelofibrosis is a condition that primarily affects the bone marrow. It may lead the painful enlargement of the spleen which may have to be removed.

• Other rare conditions and infections that bring about the severe and painful enlargement of the spleen that cannot be treated through any other non invasive procedures may require splenectomy

Removing the Spleen

There is more than one way to remove the spleen. The procedure used will depend on the patient’s condition and the doctor’s judgment.

• The spleen may be removed through open surgery if the organ has become too large or if it has ruptured considerably. In this procedure, the artery of the spleen is tied to prevent too much bleeding before the organ is detached. This is performed under general anesthesia.

• Under certain conditions, laparoscopic splenectomy is a good alternative to open surgery. It is less invasive, leaves fewer scars and allows faster patient recovery. The procedure is performed by making three small incisions on the abdomen. A tube with a light and camera is inserted through one incision. This will give your surgeon a clear view of your spleen and other organs. The surgical tools used to remove the spleen are inserted through the other incisions. Before the tools are inserted, carbon dioxide is pumped to raise the abdomen and provide more space for the surgeon. This is also performed under general anesthesia.