
Splenectomy
Procedure preparations
- In splenectomy, the spleen is removed completely, and it’s a fist-sized organ that’s located in the upper right part of the abdomen and has an important role in producing white blood cells, which are a part of the immune system in the body.
- Splenectomy is done in several cases, such as ruptured spleen (which might lead to severe and unstoppable internal bleeding), enlarged spleen, cancer, blood disorders (such as polycythemia vera, sickle cell anemia, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, thalassemia, and others), some infections, and hypersplenism. Spleen removal surgery is done in these conditions and other ones if other treatments didn’t work.
- Splenectomy might be done by using open surgery (making a surgical incision) or endoscopic surgery, depending on the case.
- Splenectomy surgery is done under general anesthesia, and it might take up to three hours or more, depending on the case. The patient can return home on the same day or the next day in the case of an endoscopic surgery, while in open surgery, the patient must stay in the hospital for 2-6 days.
Procedure preparations
- Examining the patient’s health in general.
- The patient must stop taking blood thinners (anticoagulant medications), ibuprofen, and any other medications that the doctor mentions two weeks before the procedure.
- The patient must stop smoking for a period of time before the surgery.
- The patient mustn’t have anything for 12 hours before the procedure.
Procedure complications
- Anesthesia problems.
- Infections.
- Bleeding.
- Blood clots.
- Damage in a nearby organ.
- Increased possibility of future serious infections.
Procedure instructions
- You can live a normal life after splenectomy, but you must take very good care of your health and keep your immunity strong.
- You must take some vaccines, as the doctor recommends.
- You must stick to the medications prescribed by the doctor and the regular visits.
- Immediately contact your surgeon when any sudden, odd problem or symptoms emerge.
- Full recovery might take up to six weeks.
Frequently asked questions about Splenectomy
What is Splenectomy?
Splenectomy in Syria: " In splenectomy, the spleen is removed completely, and it’s a fist-sized organ that’s located in the upper right part of the abdomen and has an important role in producing white blood cells, which are a part of the immune system in the body. Splenectomy is done in several cases, such as ruptured spleen (which might lead to severe and unstoppable internal bleeding), enlarged spleen, cancer, blood disorders (such as...
How do I prepare for Splenectomy?
" Examining the patient’s health in general. The patient must stop taking blood thinners (anticoagulant medications), ibuprofen, and any other medications that the doctor mentions two weeks before the procedure. The patient must stop smoking for a period of time before the surgery. The patient mustn’t have anything for 12 hours before the procedure. "
What are the aftercare instructions for Splenectomy?
" You can live a normal life after splenectomy, but you must take very good care of your health and keep your immunity strong. You must take some vaccines, as the doctor recommends. You must stick to the medications prescribed by the doctor and the regular visits. Immediately contact your surgeon when any sudden, odd problem or symptoms emerge. Full recovery might take up to six weeks. "
Which specialty is Splenectomy related to?
Splenectomy is related to: General Surgery.
Where can I get Splenectomy in Syria?
You can get Splenectomy at clinics and hospitals in Syria. To find specialists in General Surgery, see suggested doctors on this page or Click here
What are the possible complications of Splenectomy?
" Anesthesia problems. Infections. Bleeding. Blood clots. Damage in a nearby organ. Increased possibility of future serious infections. "




