A splenectomy is the surgical removal of the spleen, a fist-sized organ that sits under the rib cage on the upper left side of the abdomen. It is part of the lymphatic system that filters blood, stores blood cells, and makes white blood cells that helps fight infections. Also known as ‘graveyard of RBC’, a spleen also helps to get rid of old or damaged red blood cells.

A splenectomy is done when the spleen has ruptured due to an injury, or if the patient is struggling with blood disorders like sickle cell disease or hereditary spherocytosis, or has been diagnosed with certain cancers. A ruptured or injured spleen can prove fatal and requires immediate removal.

A spleen removal surgery depends on the amount of spleen that needs to be removed. The surgery can be done either laparoscopically (minimally invasive) or through open surgery, depending on the underlying condition.

An individual can live a normal lifespan without a spleen, however, they’ll need to take precautions to prevent infections. At Felix Hospital, our surgeons have expertise to perform minimally invasive laparoscopic procedures as well as open splenectomy.