The spleen is an important organ located under the left ribcage that helps filter blood, fight infections, and manage blood cells. Sometimes, due to injury, disease, or other medical conditions, Australians may need to have their spleen surgically removed-a procedure called a splenectomy. A common question that arises after this surgery is: Can the spleen grow back?
Does the Spleen Regenerate After Removal?
The straightforward answer is that the spleen itself does not fully grow back after complete removal. Once the entire spleen is taken out, it cannot regenerate into a whole, functioning organ. However, there are some important nuances to understand:
- Accessory spleens: Many people naturally have small additional bits of splenic tissue called accessory spleens. These are present in about 10–30% of individuals. After splenectomy, these accessory spleens can enlarge and take over some of the spleen’s functions, partially compensating for the loss.
- Splenosis: In cases of traumatic injury where the spleen ruptures, fragments of splenic tissue may implant elsewhere in the abdominal cavity and grow into small nodules of splenic tissue. This process, called splenosis, can restore some immune function, but it is unpredictable and varies from person to person.
Functional Recovery and Immune Protection
Studies show that when splenic tissue regenerates through accessory spleens or splenosis, it can provide partial immune protection. This is often indicated by the absence of certain abnormal blood cell markers (like Howell-Jolly bodies) and normal immune responses in blood tests.
Still, the volume and function of regenerated splenic tissue are usually less than that of a full spleen, so people who have undergone splenectomy remain at increased risk of infections.
What Does This Mean for Australians Post-Splenectomy?
Since the spleen does not fully regrow, Australians without a spleen need to take lifelong precautions to reduce infection risk:
- Vaccinations: Before and after surgery, vaccines against pneumococcus, meningococcus, Haemophilus influenzae type b, and influenza are strongly recommended and often government-funded.
- Antibiotics: Doctors commonly prescribe preventive antibiotics for at least three years post-splenectomy, or longer in some cases.
- Infection awareness: People without a spleen should be vigilant for signs of infection and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms develop.
- Medical alert: Carrying medical identification and registering with services like Spleen Australia helps ensure timely care.
Recovery After Spleen Removal Surgery
Most Australians recover well from splenectomy, especially when performed laparoscopically (keyhole surgery). The liver and other organs compensate for many spleen functions, but the risk of serious infections remains elevated.
Summary
While the spleen itself does not regenerate after complete removal, accessory spleens or splenic tissue implants may grow and partially restore function in some people. Regardless, lifelong precautions are essential to protect health after splenectomy.