The spleen cleans the blood to eliminate parasites, bacteria and old blood cells, reports the New York University Langone Medical Center. Spleen removal, also called splenectomy, is performed when there is damage to the organ through disease or trauma. The spleen is removed through a laparoscopic procedure or traditional open surgery, both of which may require additional healing time, reports MedlinePlus. There are a range of side effects that can occur after surgical removal of the spleen.
Infection
According to MayoClinic.com, the rate of acquiring infections is often higher after spleen removal. It is important to follow doctor prescribed treatments to increase immunity from infections such as getting vaccinations or taking antibiotics to prevent meningitis, pneumonia and infections of the joints, bone and blood. After spleen removal surgery, antibiotics will often be administered on a short-term or permanent basis.
Hernia
After spleen removal surgery, a hernia can develop at the surgical incision site. According to the New York University Langone Medical center, a hernia develops when an internal organ protrudes through a weak area of muscle. As a result, surgery is often required repair a damaged hernia. Patients who experience inflammation or pain near the surgical site after surgery should contact a physician immediately, as these may be symptoms of a hernia.
Injury to Other Organs
In some cases, spleen removal surgery can injure other organs close to the spleen such as the stomach, colon, pancreas or stomach, reports MedlinePlus. This can a major or minor, according to the type of injury that occurs to the organ. Although rare, special precautions are taken by physicians to proceed without injuring other organs.
Blood Clot
MedlinePlus notes that blood clots can develop in the portal vein during and after spleen removal surgery. The portal vein is responsible for transporting blood to the liver for filtering. Blood clots can slow down blood circulation and other functions. Patients who notice post surgery side effects such as swelling, redness, pain or warming sensations at the surgical incision site should contact a doctor immediately.
