Splenectomy

The preferred method for performing a splenectomy is with a laparoscope, a slender tool with a light and camera at the end. During the laparoscopic procedure, your surgeon will make three or four incisions in your abdomen. The laparoscope is then inserted through one of the incisions so your surgeon can see your spleen. Carbon dioxide gas is used to inflate the operative area and give your surgeon more room to work. Then, your surgeon disconnects your spleen and removes it through the largest incision. Afterward, the openings are closed using sutures.  If your spleen is too large to be removed using a laparoscope, your surgeon will make a larger, single incision in your abdomen, and remove your spleen through it.

A procedure that involves a smaller incision and a less invasive technique, shortening recovery time.

Your doctor may recommend a splenectomy because of cancer or other diseases that are affecting your spleen.

Some of the possible side effects and complications of splenectomy are bleeding, blood clots, infection, and injury to nearby organs.

Alternative to splenectomy surgery includes repairing the spleen, partial removal of the spleen, and reimplantation of splenic tissue.

Many splenectomy patients return to most of their usual routines after their recovery from the procedure. Following a splenectomy, other organs in your body typically take over the functions that were performed by your spleen—making white blood cells to protect you from infection and storing and filtering blood. But splenectomy patients are at an increased risk of other infections and illnesses, so your doctor might recommend that you take extra precautions.

You don’t need a referral to see a surgeon about a splenectomy surgery.

You can always get a second or third opinion, but it isn’t required. 

Your health history will be compiled and available to the team before, during, and after surgery. If you’re a Hancock Health patient, we will be able to access your records within our system. If you aren’t, we will work with your doctors to get the necessary information.

Your surgical team will evaluate the situation and help you make a choice that’s right for you and your health.

Consult the price transparency tool at HancockRegionalHospital.org for an idea of how much a splenectomy surgery might cost.

Medicare parts A and B will cover the cost of a splenectomy, but it’s important for your doctor to indicate that the surgery is medically necessary.

Follow the directions your care team gives you to prepare for your procedure.

You’ll arrive several hours before your surgery and be escorted to the preoperative waiting area.You’ll remove all of your clothing and jewelry and put on a hospital gown. (Your valuables will be placed in a secure area or may be given to a family member.) You’ll sign any necessary paperwork, and a preoperative nurse will take your vital signs, review your medications, and answer any questions.You’ll meet the members of your care team. An I.V. (intravenous line) may be placed in your hand or arm so medication, including anesthesia, can be administered.When it’s time for your procedure, you will be wheeled into the operating suite.

In addition to the surgeon, you have an anesthesiologist, nurses—some of whom specialize in working with patients and others assist the surgeon—and support staff, who get you checked in and out, compile your records, and more. They all work together, performing their individual jobs, so the procedure is as successful as possible.

You will likely stay in the hospital for one or two days following your splenectomy, so it’s a good idea to be prepared. Bring anything you might need for an overnight stay, including a change of underwear, a sweatshirt, robe, glasses or contacts, headphones, and your medications.

You will be anesthetized. Your surgeon will make one or more incisions in your abdomen and remove your spleen. Afterward, your incisions will be closed using sutures.

A splenectomy procedure usually takes 2-4 hours.

While the length of a hospital stay depends on each patient’s individual needs, patients are typically discharged after one or two days.

After the procedure, you will be moved to a recovery room where you will stay until you’re ready to be released.

You’ll be able to talk to your surgeon immediately after your procedure, while you’re in the recovery room.

Most patients receive pain medication immediately following a splenectomy.

Your doctor may prescribe pain medication to ease any discomfort associated with the procedure. You might also have a prescription for antibiotics.

Make sure you have the appropriate groceries for when you arrive home from the splenectomy surgery. If you live alone, you may want to arrange for a friend or family member to check in with you for a few days.

Your doctor will likely schedule a follow-up appointment about two weeks after your splenectomy.

Following your splenectomy procedure, your doctor will give you specific instructions about how to care for your wound. Generally, you will need any medications and dressings your care team recommends. You will also need to keep the wound clean as it heals.

Most splenectomy patients are able to return to work and other activities two to six weeks after the surgery. If you have a laparoscopic splenectomy, you will probably be able to resume your normal activities sooner than if you had an open splenectomy.