Spleen Removal Recovery

Surgery to remove the spleen is called splenectomy. There are two types: open splenectomy (removing the organ through a large incision) and laparoscopic splenectomy (removing the organ through small incisions, guided by a laparascope device with a light and camera).

Immediately After Surgery

Patients receive intravenous fluids and pain medication after surgery. They're discharged when they can eat properly, urinate, and complete everyday activities like dressing.

Time Frame

Splenectomy patients generally require less than a week of recovery in the hospital, and some laparoscopic splenectomy patients may need only one day. Complete healing typically takes four to six weeks.

At Home

Most patients can eat normally and resume moderate activities like walking once at home. They should wait at least a week before taking long baths and driving, and some may require more fiber and fluids to avoid the common surgery side effect of constipation.

Potential Complications

Splenectomy patients are susceptible to getting more infections and may require preventive vaccinations or antibiotics. Although rare, other complications may include infection where the spleen was, pancreatitis (inflamed pancreas) and pneumonia.

Overwhelming Post-Splenectomy Infection

Overwhelming post-splenectomy infection (OPSI) is an infection that affects the entire body. Splenectomy patients are at risk because they have no spleen to fight related bacteria. Remedies include immunization and antibiotics.

References

• Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons: Patient Information for Laparoscopic Spleen Removal
• Penn State: Spleen Removal