Spleen Removal

Alternate Names : Splenectomy

What happens later at home?

Following a spleen removal, the person will be taught how to care for the incision. Activity at home will be based on how the person is feeling. The person can slowly increase activity as his or her strength comes back. It may be a few weeks to several weeks before a person can drive, return to work, or participate in strenuous activity.

What are the potential complications after the procedure?

There are possible side effects with any surgery. These include bleeding, infection, and allergic reactions to the anesthesia.

A person who has his or her spleen removed may also be more prone to bacterial infection. Common infections are streptococcus pneumonia and haemophilus influenza. The body loses some of its ability to fight infection when the spleen is removed. After a short time, other organs, such as the liver, increase their infection fighting ability. The increased risk of infection is not lifelong. Children are at higher risk for this complication. Avoiding exposure to others with known infection may reduce the risk of contacting these illnesses.