Splenectomy

Why does my child need a splenectomy?

Your spleen, located in the upper left side of your abdomen, is a fist-sized organ that filters blood and helps your body fight infection. Your spleen also stores blood cells and ensures your liver has a steady supply of blood. 

In some cases, removing the spleen is critical for your child’s health. Your pediatric surgeon may recommend removing your child’s spleen due to:

• Severe infections
• Tumors or cysts 
• Enlargement or rupture
• Cancer, including certain forms of lymphoma and leukemia
• Blood disorders, such as thalassemia or polycythemia vera

As with most surgeries, having your child undergo a splenectomy is often the very last resort if conservative treatments fail or just aren’t an option. 

How do I prepare my child for a splenectomy?

Trying to prepare your child for a surgical procedure can be overwhelming for you and for them. But the team at California Pediatric Surgical Group collaborates with you to ensure you receive the preoperative care you need so you know exactly what to expect.

To get your child ready for a splenectomy, you may need to have them stop taking any medications or supplements for a day or two beforehand. They also need to stop eating or drinking by a certain time — as designated by your surgeon — the night before their surgery. 

Aside from these steps, you likely won’t have any special preparation for your child’s upcoming splenectomy. In many cases, they can return home the same day as their surgery, so ensuring they have a comfortable place to recuperate is often helpful. 

How long is the recovery after a splenectomy?

Most splenectomy procedures at California Pediatric Surgical Group are minimally invasive, which decreases your child’s downtime. With a laparoscopic splenectomy, your child should fully recover within about two weeks.

Sometimes, traditional open splenectomy procedures are necessary. If your child needs an open surgery, it can take anywhere from 4-6 weeks for them to fully recover. 

Your child can go on to live a full, healthy, and happy life after a splenectomy. They just have a slightly higher risk of infections, so certain vaccines are important. 

California Pediatric Surgical Group provides comprehensive splenectomy care. Book your child’s exam through the website or call the location nearest you directly to book by phone today.