What is Laparoscopic Splenectomy?

Splenectomy is recommended in cases of splenic cysts and tumors like lymphoma. It might also be recommended for blood-related disorders such as hereditary spherocytosis, idiopathic thrombocytopenia, hypersplenism, etc.

Laparoscopic Splenectomy (Keyhole) procedure to remove the spleen in a patient with localised melanoma spread. Patient permission and consent obtained.

This procedure is done through small cuts on the abdomen; the spleen is removed via a small incision (usually around 5 cm) which is made over the bikini-line. Since the procedure is performed through tiny cuts and no open wounds, the patient experiences less pain and an excellent cosmetic outcome along with a shorter recovery period.

Benefits of Laparoscopic Splenectomy

Is there anything else I need to know?

Prior to surgery, you will need to be immunized with pneumococcal, influenza and meningococcal vaccines. This is in order to prevent overwhelming post-splenectomy infection (OPSI). In case you develop a fever after a splenectomy, always speak to your doctor immediately and never take over-the-counter medication for it.