CDTVProceduresRemoval of Spleen Printer Friendly Page

The spleen is a small organ located next to the stomach. A part of the lymphatic system, the spleen helps protect the body against infection and filters blood. While years ago it was thought the spleen had no specific role, we know now that patients who have had their spleen removed are more susceptible to certain types of infection.

However, there are times when removal of the spleen, or a splenectomy, is medically necessary: following severe trauma or injury to the organ, or as part of treatment for an underlying disease. Splenomegaly, an abnormal enlargement of the spleen; idiopathic purpura, a bleeding disorder; Felty’s syndrome, a spleen disorder associated with adult rheumatoid arthritis; Hodgkin’s disease; and leukemia are examples of conditions that may require a splenectomy.

Removing the Spleen

There are two general types of splenectomy: the "open" surgery and a minimally invasive procedure using the laparoscope and specially designed instruments.

With the "open" procedure, the surgeon makes an abdominal incision that can be up to 12 inches long, cutting through muscle and tissue. The spleen is located and removed. Hospitalization following the surgery may be up to one week, with a three to four week recuperation period.

The laparoscopic surgeon makes three or four small incisions: one for insertion of the laparoscope, a thin, telescope-like instrument attached to a camera, and the others for specially designed surgical instruments. The camera projects images of the spleen and the surrounding area onto a television monitor, which the surgeon watches as he or she moves the instruments that remove the spleen. With the laparoscopic procedure, patients are usually hospitalized for 1 or 2 days, have less postoperative pain, and a shorter recovery time.

After the Surgery

Once the spleen is removed, the patient has a greater chance of severe infection. This is especially true with children. However, there are ways to reduce this risk.

At least two weeks prior to elective surgery, adults and children over 2 receive special vaccinations. Booster vaccinations may be needed, as well. Also, children who have had a splenectomy typically take daily doses of penicillin until they are 16 years old.

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