A splenectomy is defined as the surgical removal of the spleen. The organ is located in the upper, left abdominal cavity, and it helps to control bacteria in the blood stream.

The spleen is removed as the treatment of choice in various hematologic disorders. The spleen may be removed for the following reasons: to reduce the rate of red blood cell (RBC) and platelet destruction; to remove a ruptured organ; or to stage or control a basic disease process such as Hodgkin's lymphoma (see Diagnostic Code: 7709 Hodgkin's lymphoma) and conditions such as hereditary spherocytosis and autoimmune cytopenias. Other conditions which may indicate the need to remove the spleen include: thrombocytopenia (see Diagnostic Code: 7705 Thrombocytopenia), hemolytic anemia, leukemia, storage disease such as Gaucher's disease, Felty's syndrome, thalassemia major, and renal dialysis hypersplenism. The spleen may also be removed to stop hemorrhage after a traumatic rupture.

The signs and symptoms for removal of the spleen are those noted in (Diagnostic Code: 7705 Thrombocytopenia and Diagnostic Code: 7709 Hodgkin's lymphoma), or other related conditions. After surgery, the person is observed closely for bleeding, infection, pneumonia, and atelectasis.

Tests conducted prior to surgery are related to the specific condition upon which the need for the procedure is based. These tests may include complete blood count (CBC), and coagulation tests.

Splenectomy is the treatment of choice for certain immune disorders of the blood and bone marrow, including chronic idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) or chronic myelocytic leukemia. Prior to splenectomy, vaccine for pneumococcal pneumonia is given in an effort to decrease the risk of infection with encapsulated bacteria to which the patient is at risk for following splenectomy.

There may be complications following surgery which may include: bleeding, infection, pneumonia, and atelectasis. The person has an increased susceptibility to infection, and should be encouraged to avoid exposure to infections. Leukocytosis and thrombocytosis occur after the removal of the spleen, and may last for years. After a splenectomy, other structures, particularly the bone marrow and the liver, then assume the functions of the spleen.

• None.

• Separately rate complications such as systemic infections with encapsulated bacteria.