Splenectomy (having the spleen removed)

An operation to remove the spleen, known as a splenectomy, may be needed if the spleen is damaged, diseased or enlarged.

It may sometimes be more appropriate to have just part of your spleen removed a partial splenectomy.

If there's time, you'll be advised to have a series of immunisations before the operation.

Laparoscopy

Most splenectomies are carried out using laparoscopy (keyhole surgery).

A laparoscope is long, thin, flexible instrument withits own light source. It is attached to a camera andwill relay high definition, magnified pictures back to a TV screen to guide the surgeon's instruments.

Laparoscopic splenectomy allows a surgeon to access the inside of your abdomen without having to make large incisions (cuts) in your skin. However, you will still need a general anaesthetic.

The procedure involves:

• Making several incisions in your abdomen (tummy area).
• Guiding a laparoscope into your body through one of the incisions, so doctors can see what they're doing.
• Passing thin instruments into your abdomen through the other incisions, to remove your spleen. Gas will be pumped into your abdomento make this easier.

The incisions will then be stitched up or sometimes glued together.You may be able to go home the same day, or may need to stay in hospital overnight. If you go home the same day, someone will need to stay with you for the first 24 hours.

Open surgery

Open surgery, where one large incision is made, may be needed if the spleen is too large or too damaged to be removed via keyhole surgery.Often, in emergencies, this will be the preferred method to rapidly control bleeding.

You'll need a general anaesthetic and may need to stay in hospital for a few days to recover.

Afterwards

It's normal to feel sore and be bruised after a splenectomy, but you'll be given pain relief medication.

You should be able to eat and drink as normal soon after the operation.

Like any operation, a splenectomy carries a small risk of complications, including bleeding and infection.

Your doctor will run through these risks with you.

You should be given breathing and leg movement exercises to doat home, to reduce your risk of getting a blood clot or a chest infection.

Another risk is the surgical wound becoming infected. If you spot any signs of infection , contact your GP or hospital immediately, as youmay need antibiotics.

Recovery usually takes a few weeks. Your doctor or nurse will advise when you can go back to your usual activities, such as driving.