Splenectomy is a surgical procedure performed to remove the spleen, an organ located in the upper left abdomen that plays an important role in immune function and blood filtration. While the spleen is involved in fighting infections and managing blood cells, certain medical conditions necessitate its removal to protect overall health or prevent life-threatening complications.

Conditions requiring splenectomy include traumatic splenic injury, blood disorders such as immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), hereditary spherocytosis, hemolytic anemias, splenic tumors or cysts, and hypersplenism causing low blood cell counts. The spleen may also be removed as part of cancer surgery or when it becomes enlarged and prone to rupture.

Patients requiring splenectomy may present with abdominal pain, anemia, low platelet counts, recurrent infections, or signs of internal bleeding following trauma. Diagnosis involves clinical assessment, blood tests, and imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scans to evaluate spleen size and integrity.

Splenectomy can be performed using a minimally invasive laparoscopic approach or through open surgery, depending on the indication and urgency. Laparoscopic splenectomy is preferred in elective cases due to smaller incisions, reduced pain, and faster recovery. Open splenectomy may be necessary in cases of massive splenic enlargement, trauma, or uncontrolled bleeding.

The procedure is performed under general anesthesia. Surgeons carefully control blood vessels supplying the spleen to minimize blood loss and protect surrounding organs. Advances in surgical technique and perioperative care have significantly improved the safety of splenectomy.

Following surgery, patients are monitored closely for bleeding, infection, and overall recovery. Because the spleen plays a role in immune defense, patients undergoing splenectomy require vaccinations and long-term preventive measures to reduce infection risk. Education on recognizing signs of infection is an essential component of postoperative care.

Most patients recover well after splenectomy and experience resolution of symptoms related to their underlying condition. With appropriate preventive care and follow-up, individuals can lead healthy lives without a spleen. Splenectomy remains a vital surgical option in selected patients where the benefits clearly outweigh the risks.