Splenectomy is a surgical procedure to remove your spleen. The most common reason for splenectomy is to treat a ruptured spleen, which is often caused by an abdominal injury(Road Traffic Accidents )
Splenectomy may be used to treat other conditions, including an enlarged spleen that is causing discomfort (splenomegaly), some blood disorders, certain cancers, infection, and noncancerous cysts or tumors.
The procedure can be performed by the open method or by the laparoscopic method. Your doctor will decide as to what is best for you. In the open method the
This procedure can be done using Laparoscopy. However laparoscopic splenectomy isn’t appropriate for everyone. A ruptured spleen usually requires open splenectomy.
After splenectomy, notify your doctor at the first sign of an infection, such as:
- A fever of 100.4 F (38 C) or higher
- Redness or tender spots anywhere on the body
- A sore throat
- Chills that cause you to shake or shiver
- A cold that lasts longer than usual
To reduce your risk of infection post-surgery, you will need to take vaccines against pneumonia, influenza, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) and meningococci. In some cases, Antibiotics also may be recommended.
