A splenectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the spleen, an organ located under the left ribcage that plays a vital role in filtering blood, fighting infections, and managing blood cells. In Australia, splenectomy is performed for various medical reasons, including trauma, blood disorders, and certain cancers. While the spleen is important, people can live without it, though they must take precautions to avoid infections.
Why Is the Spleen Removed?
The spleen may need to be removed when it is damaged, diseased, or enlarged. Common reasons for splenectomy in Australia include:
- Trauma or rupture: Injury from accidents or sports can cause spleen rupture, requiring urgent removal.
- Blood disorders: Conditions like idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), where the spleen destroys platelets, can improve after splenectomy.
- Cancers or cysts: Tumors or large cysts affecting the spleen may necessitate removal.
- Abscess or infections: Severe infections not responding to treatment might require surgery.
How Is the Surgery Performed?
Splenectomy in Australia is usually done using laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery, which involves several small incisions (5-10mm) in the abdomen. Carbon dioxide gas is used to inflate the abdominal cavity, giving the surgeon space to operate with specialized instruments and a camera. This minimally invasive approach leads to less pain, smaller scars, and quicker recovery.
In some cases, such as severe trauma or when laparoscopic surgery is not feasible, open surgery through a larger abdominal incision is performed.
The operation typically takes 1 to 2 hours under general anesthesia. The surgeon carefully detaches the spleen from surrounding organs, ties off its blood vessels, and removes it inside a protective bag.
Preparing for Splenectomy
Before surgery, Australians are usually given vaccinations to protect against infections by bacteria such as pneumococcus, meningococcus, and Haemophilus influenzae type b. These vaccines are government-funded and essential because the spleen plays a key role in fighting these infections.
Your doctor may also advise stopping certain medications, like blood thinners, before the procedure.
Recovery After Spleen Removal
Post-surgery, it is normal to experience soreness and bruising. Pain relief will be provided, and most patients can eat and drink normally soon after. Recovery usually takes about a week, with gradual return to daily activities as advised by your surgeon.
To reduce risks of complications such as blood clots or chest infections, breathing exercises and leg movements are encouraged. Watch for signs of infection at the surgical site and contact your healthcare provider if symptoms appear.
Life Without a Spleen
Though the spleen is important, other organs like the liver take over many of its functions after removal. However, there remains a lifelong increased risk of serious infections. To minimize this risk, Australians who have had a splenectomy should:
- Stay up to date with recommended vaccinations, including annual flu shots.
- Take antibiotics as prescribed, either daily or as an emergency supply to start if infection symptoms arise.
- Be vigilant for signs of infection and seek prompt medical care.
- Inform all healthcare providers about their splenectomy status.
- Register with Spleen Australia, a national program providing reminders for vaccinations and advice on infection prevention.
Summary
Splenectomy is a common and generally safe procedure in Australia, primarily performed laparoscopically. It is used to treat trauma, blood disorders, and other spleen-related conditions. While living without a spleen requires lifelong precautions to prevent infections, most people lead healthy, normal lives post-surgery with proper care and monitoring.