Splenectomy

Splenectomy is the surgical removal of the spleen. This organ is located in the upper abdominal cavity to the left, behind the stomach, under the ribs. The spleen is responsible for removing bacteria, parasites from the body, filtering the blood, and removing dead and damaged blood cells.

The leading Israeli clinic Tel Aviv Medical Clinic employs real professionals who are involved in the detection and treatment of unwanted pathologies. We use modern equipment and unique methods of therapy. Our medical staff annually undergoes internships in leading foreign centres. Our clinic uses an integrated approach to therapy. Thus, patients will be able to get advice from other specialized specialists.

When a procedure is scheduled

The doctor prescribes surgery in such cases: 

• damage to the spleen during a strong blow, in an accident, during sports training, etc.;
• pathological enlargement of the spleen;
• Verlhof disease (the most common indication);
• the need to clarify the stage of lymphogranulomatosis (cancer);
• spherocytosis;
• leukaemia;
• thalassemia;
• some types of lymphoma.

Preparation for surgery 

Before the operation, the patient needs to undergo a series of examinations and pass laboratory tests: 

• radiography of the abdominal cavity;
• Ultrasound CT ECG;
• fluorography;
• biochemical and clinical blood tests;
• coagulogram;
• blood tests for syphilis, HIV, hepatitis B and C.

Surgery 

The open method of surgery is used less and less and for special indications. This intervention allows you to access not only the spleen but also the pancreas and liver through a large incision on the abdominal wall. If there are no special indications, preference is given to the minimally invasive laparoscopic technique. The spleen can be removed completely or partially.

The main advantages of the laparoscopic technique are less postoperative pain compared to open surgery, as well as faster recovery. Small holes are a lower risk of infection and inflammation.

After surgery, the patient may experience adverse reactions. The most common complication is bleeding, which requires immediate reoperation. Therefore, at the end of the intervention, it is very important to stop even slight bleeding. Another possible but very rare complication is an infection of surgical wounds. It is dangerous in that after splenectomy, the patient has reduced immunity. Pancreatitis is also possible. It appears when injured during pancreatic tail surgery.