Splenectomy

The spleen is located in the upper left area of the abdomen. Under normal circumstances, it has several important functions: development of blood cells, fighting infection, & removal of old blood cells & other particles from the blood stream. Sometimes, the spleen malfunctions or is damaged and must be removed. When this occurs, most of the necessary splenic functions are taken up be other body systems, although the body cannot completely assume the "infection fighting" function of the spleen. The most common indications for removal of the spleen are Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), or Hereditary Spherocytosis.

You will probably be admitted to the hospital after your operation. The surgery takes approximately two hours & you will be in the hospital about two to three days.

Incision

In most cases the spleen can be removed laparoscopically. This involves a small scope through the belly button and three additional port insertion sites that are 1-inch in size. A dissolvable suture is used so that there will not be any stitches to remove. You do not need to put medicine or bandages over the incision.

Bathing

You may shower or take a shallow tub bath three days after surgery. Pat the incision dry. You should wait one week before you soak the incision in the bathtub or swim.

Activity

When you return home, you may participate in normal activities such as walking & climbing stairs. You should not participate in contact sports, lift over ten pounds, or participate in activities that could cause a blow to the abdomen for four weeks after the surgery. You may return to school, but should not participate in physical education classes for 4 weeks.

Pain

Take Tylenol in an age appropriate dosage.

Return to clinic

You will be given an appointment to the clinic about two weeks following discharge from the hospital.

When to call

Call the Pediatric Surgery Clinic if you have increased redness, tenderness, or drainage from the incision, or if you have symptoms of crampy or abdominal pain, vomiting, or a temperature over 101.5 degrees F.

IMPORTANT

You will be taking an antibiotic everyday for the rest of your life (usually Penicillin, unless you are allergic to it). Without the spleen to fight off certain infections, you may be more likely to get some very serious bacterial infections. The antibiotic will help prevent these infections. If you get a fever (101.5 F), any upper respiratory infection, develop chills, or feel ill, it is important that you see a physician.

Who should I call with questions or concerns?

Call the pediatric surgery office Monday through Friday 8am-5pm at (734) 764-4151. After hours, weekends, or holidays for emergent issues only, call the hospital paging operator and ask for the pediatric surgeon on call at (734) 936-6267.

This information is provided by the University of Michigan Department of Surgery, Section of Pediatric Surgery and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. For additional health information, please contact your health care provider or our offices.