What is Spleen Surgery?

Spleen surgery, referred to in the medical community as splenectomy, is a spleen removal procedure. This procedure was first performed in 1549 and traditionally involved a horizontal or diagonal incision between the ribs and navel.

Today, surgeons like Dr. Steven Williams use advanced techniques, like da Vinci robotic surgery, to perform splenectomy with smaller incisions and a shorter recovery period.

When is Spleen Surgery Recommended?

Spleen surgery can treat numerous conditions and diseases. It is most often recommended if you have:

Cancer
A blood disorder
An enlarged spleen
A ruptured spleen
A severe infection
A tumor or cyst

How Do You Prepare for Spleen Surgery?

To prepare for spleen surgery, your doctor may ask you to stop taking any drugs or supplements that affect blood clotting temporarily. During your initial consultation, Dr. Williams will provide you with a comprehensive list of everything you need to avoid before your procedure. You should also prepare for your spleen surgery by making sure you're hydrated and well-nourished on the day of your procedure.

What Happens During Spleen Surgery?

Before your spleen surgery begins, you will be administered a general anesthetic. Once the medication has taken effect, four small incisions will be made in your abdomen. A tiny camera attached to a thin tube will be inserted into one incision, and special tools will be inserted into the other three incisions. Then, your abdomen will be inflated using carbon dioxide, your surgeon will remove your spleen, and the incisions will be closed.

What Can You Expect During Your Recovery Process?

Before You Go Home

After your minimally invasive splenectomy, you will receive IV fluids in your arm and an analgesic to ease any discomfort you may have. After an observation period, you are free to return home. Just make sure you don't drive yourself home; you may not drive within 24 hours of receiving general anesthesia or taking a prescription narcotic.

At-Home Recovery

Once home, you may walk upstairs and shower, but you should not bathe for the first week after your procedure. You can perform many of your daily activities, but you should not exert yourself too much. Keep your heart rate under 100 beats per minute, and don't lift anything over nine pounds for two weeks after your procedure.

Driving

Most people feel up to driving five to seven days after their procedure. Just remember to wait at least 24 hours since the last narcotic you took to consider driving.

Schedule an Appointment with the Experts

Splenectomy has been performed for centuries, most notably to remove enlarged spleens. Today, it is performed with small incisions and is recommended for individuals with cancer, tumors or cysts, blood disorders, and more. Thanks to advanced technology and innovative techniques, you can drive within five days of your procedure and be fully recovered in just two weeks. To find out if spleen removal is suitable for you, contact our experts at Capital Surgical Associates in Boise, ID, to schedule an appointment.

Seeing General Surgery Specialists at Capital Surgical Associates

Dr. Steven Williams and Dr. Daniel Gay have a passion for helping others. They are dedicated to supporting and providing solutions to the people of the Boise area.

Contact Capital Surgical Associates