Our Summary

The spleen is a major organ that we don’t fully understand yet. Persian medicine suggests that the spleen is linked to many parts of the body such as the liver, cardiovascular system, stomach, bones, brain, and skin. When the spleen isn’t working properly, it can cause changes in blood thickness, appetite, bone strength, liver function, mood, skin conditions, cancer, and fever.

Sometimes, the spleen is removed in a procedure called a splenectomy. This is often done to treat certain disorders, but it can also increase the risk of infections. This study suggests that removing the spleen may have more side effects than we currently know.

Known complications of splenectomy include an overly thickened state of the blood, heart-related events, and infectious diseases. There’s also some evidence that it may increase the risk of cancer, skin diseases like systemic lupus erythematosus, mood disorders such as depression, defective bone formation, and weakened immunity.

However, for some potential side effects, like changes in appetite, there’s not enough research or evidence. More research is needed to understand these potential complications, which could lead to new findings.

FAQs

  1. What is a splenectomy and why is it performed?
  2. What are the known complications of splenectomy?
  3. Is there a link between splenectomy and changes in appetite?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might give a patient who has undergone a splenectomy is to be vigilant about their overall health and immune system. It is important for patients who have had their spleen removed to take extra precautions to reduce their risk of infections. This includes staying up to date on vaccinations, particularly for diseases such as pneumonia, meningitis, and influenza. Patients should also be aware of the signs of infection, such as fever, chills, and increased fatigue, and seek medical attention promptly if they develop any of these symptoms. It is also important for patients to follow up regularly with their healthcare provider to monitor their overall health and address any potential complications that may arise from the splenectomy.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended splenectomy include those with:

  1. Hemolytic anemia: This is a condition where the red blood cells are destroyed faster than they can be produced, leading to anemia. Removing the spleen can help improve symptoms in some cases.

  2. Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP): This is a disorder in which the immune system destroys platelets, leading to a low platelet count and an increased risk of bleeding. Splenectomy may be recommended for patients who do not respond to other treatments.

  3. Spleen-related cancers: In some cases of certain types of cancers that originate in the spleen, a splenectomy may be recommended as part of the treatment plan.

  4. Spleen injury: In cases of severe trauma or injury to the spleen, a splenectomy may be necessary to stop bleeding and prevent further complications.

  5. Enlarged spleen (splenomegaly): In some cases, an enlarged spleen can cause pain, discomfort, and other complications. In these cases, a splenectomy may be recommended.

It is important for patients considering a splenectomy to discuss the risks and benefits with their healthcare provider and to weigh the potential complications against the potential benefits of the procedure.

Timeline

Before splenectomy:

  • Patient may experience symptoms related to the underlying condition that requires splenectomy, such as an enlarged spleen, immune system disorders, or blood disorders.
  • Patient undergoes preoperative testing and evaluation to ensure they are a suitable candidate for surgery.
  • Patient receives information about the risks and benefits of splenectomy and gives informed consent.
  • Surgery is performed to remove the spleen.

After splenectomy:

  • Patient may experience pain, discomfort, and fatigue in the immediate postoperative period.
  • Patient is monitored for any signs of infection, bleeding, or other complications.
  • Patient may need to take antibiotics or other medications to prevent infections, as the spleen plays a role in the immune system.
  • Patient may need to receive vaccinations against certain infections, as they are at increased risk without a spleen.
  • Patient may need to make lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of infections, such as avoiding certain activities or foods that increase the risk of infection.
  • Long-term follow-up is needed to monitor for any potential complications, such as changes in blood thickness, heart-related events, infectious diseases, cancer, mood disorders, bone abnormalities, or weakened immunity.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Here are some questions a patient should ask their doctor before undergoing a splenectomy:

  1. Why do I need a splenectomy and what are the potential benefits of the procedure?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications of a splenectomy?
  3. How will my immune system be affected by the removal of my spleen?
  4. Will I need any vaccinations or preventive measures to protect against infections after the splenectomy?
  5. How will my overall health and quality of life be impacted after the splenectomy?
  6. Are there any alternative treatments or options to consider instead of a splenectomy?
  7. What is the recovery process like after a splenectomy and how long will it take?
  8. Will I need to make any lifestyle changes or follow a special diet after the splenectomy?
  9. How often will I need follow-up appointments or monitoring after the procedure?
  10. Are there any long-term effects or complications I should be aware of after a splenectomy?

Reference

Authors: Zakeri S, Gorji N, Akhtari M, Moeini R. Journal: Med Hypotheses. 2018 Mar;112:43-46. doi: 10.1016/j.mehy.2018.01.009. PMID: 29447937