Though the spleen serves an important role in the immune system, some conditions require the complete or partial removal of the organ. The spleen is largely responsible for filtering the blood and fighting infection. Conditions that affect blood cells or interfere with the spleen's functionality may require splenectomy, including:
Spleen-Related Conditions:
• Spleen cancer
• Hypersplenism (overactive spleen)
• Cyst, abscess, infection or pus in the spleen
• Trauma
Other Conditions:
• Cancers that affect the blood (lymphoma, leukemia, Hodgkin's disease)
• Blood cell disorders like idiopathic thrombocytopenia purpura (ITP)
• Cirrhosis of the liver
• Sickle cell anemia
• Lupus
Surgical procedures include:
LAPAROSCOPIC or ROBOTIC SPLENECTOMY - has key advantages for patients including:
• Less post-operative pain
• Faster recovery from surgery
• Shorter hospital stay
• Quicker return to work and normal activities
• Improved cosmetic result