inspiring canadians to live better.

healthing leaf

inspiring canadians to live better.

healthing leaf
get healthing in your inbox with the morning checkup and weekender newsletter!

top of the page

splenectomy

surgery overview

a splenectomy (say "splih-nek-tuh-mee") is surgery to take out the spleen. you may have your spleen taken out because a disease made it get too big. or maybe your spleen no longer works as it should. the doctor also may remove the spleen if it was damaged in an injury.

your surgery may be done through one large cut (incision). this is called open surgery. or you may have laparoscopic surgery. to do this, the doctor puts a lighted tube, or scope, and other tools through several small cuts.

the spleen helps protect you from illness. after your spleen is gone, you may be more likely to get certain infections. so before or soon after your surgery, you will need a pneumococcal shot. you may also need other vaccinations.

open surgery will leave a scar about 15 to 25 centimetres long on your belly. laparoscopic surgery leaves small scars. they will fade over time.

related information

credits

top of the page

this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use. learn how we develop our content.

this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use and privacy policy. to learn more about healthwise, visit healthwise.org. © 1995-2022 healthwise, incorporated. healthwise, healthwise for every health decision, and the healthwise logo are trademarks of healthwise, incorporated.

advertisement