Splenectomy (spleen removal surgery)
Physicians have to assess the grade of splenomegaly before starting treatment because a severe form of splenomegaly is an indication for splenectomy. Splenectomy is a major surgical operation in which the surgeon partially or completely removes the spleen. The success rate of splenectomy is reasonable as it is estimated to be about 60%, on the other hand, the splenectomy mortality rate is relatively low (1.5%). Statistics have shown that life expectancy for patients who had splenectomy isn’t affected however their quality of life has improved.
Splenectomy is indicated in critical cases that require surgical interference otherwise the patients will suffer from potentially fatal complications. Indications of splenectomy are:
- Massive splenomegaly that is suspected to rupture is an urgent call for surgical removal of the spleen
- Primary tumors of the spleen aren’t commonly reported but if so doctors will prefer to surgically excise the tumor or the whole spleen. Spleen isn’t an essential organ for humans moreover, high vascularity of the spleen makes tumors spread easier therefore physicians recommend its removal once spleen tumor is found.
- A life-threatening spleen abscess or even not responding to antibiotics is an indication for splenectomy to avoid septicemia.
- Spleen rupture is a serious emergency that requires immediate medical care. Fortunately mild to moderate spleen rupture could be controlled well. Internal bleeding caused by a ruptured spleen is the main cause of death
Postoperative instructions for patients who had splenectomy include long-term oral penicillin intake, avoiding straining, avoiding infections as possible, avoiding traveling to endemic countries, and informing your doctor in case of fever. Physicians usually recommend vaccination against pneumococci, meningococci, and homophiles influenza two weeks after surgery.
