A splenectomy is a specialized surgical procedure that involves removing the spleen—an organ located in the upper left abdomen that filters blood and helps fight certain infections. At our practice, we understand that the decision to remove an organ can create significant concerns about long-term health implications. That's why we're committed to providing compassionate, expert care while helping you through your path of recovery.
This targeted procedure effectively treats conditions such as certain blood disorders, traumatic injury, severely enlarged spleen (splenomegaly), or splenic tumors that cause discomfort or complications. Our splenectomy approach utilizes advanced laparoscopic or robotic-assisted techniques whenever appropriate, creating several small incisions rather than one large opening. We employ meticulous vascular control methods and specialized dissection techniques that prioritize complete removal while preserving surrounding structures. Our comprehensive approach includes pre-operative vaccinations and post-operative immune support strategies, resulting in improved symptoms and quality of life while minimizing the long-term immune implications of living without a spleen.
You may need a splenectomy if you experience:
Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) not responding to medical treatment
Hereditary spherocytosis causing severe anemia
Traumatic injury to the spleen causing bleeding
Splenic abscess not responsive to antibiotics
Certain types of lymphoma or leukemia affecting the spleen
Splenic cysts causing symptoms or at risk of rupture
Hypersplenism (overactive spleen destroying blood cells)
Myelofibrosis with painful splenomegaly
Sickle cell disease with recurrent splenic sequestration
Thalassemia with severe splenic enlargement
Felty syndrome (rheumatoid arthritis with splenomegaly)
Splenic vein thrombosis with bleeding risk
Splenic artery aneurysm
Symptomatic splenomegaly causing pain, early satiety, or pressure on other organs
Diagnostic uncertainty requiring tissue examination
At Lifetime Surgical, our approach to splenectomy combines precision with personalized care. The procedure begins with a comprehensive preoperative evaluation, including specialized blood testing, imaging, and critical pre-operative vaccinations to protect against encapsulated bacteria that the spleen typically helps fight.
What distinguishes us is our surgeon's expertise in both minimally invasive and open techniques, with selection based on your specific condition, spleen size, and overall health status. For laparoscopic or robotic-assisted approaches, we utilize 3-4 small incisions strategically placed for optimal access and visualization, while larger or more complex spleens may require an open approach through a carefully placed upper abdominal incision.
Our distinctive approach includes meticulous identification and control of the splenic vessels using advanced energy devices and vascular stapling techniques that minimize blood loss during this potentially vascular procedure. We take exceptional care to prevent injury to the pancreatic tail, which lies close to the spleen, and thoroughly examine for accessory spleens that might need removal to prevent condition recurrence.
Throughout your healthcare journey, we implement enhanced recovery protocols specific to splenectomy, incorporating optimal pain management, early mobility, and carefully planned return to activities. Our multidisciplinary team includes hematologists who guide your long-term health management without a spleen, including immunization schedules, prophylactic antibiotics when appropriate, and education about prompt response to potential infections. This comprehensive care ensures not only successful surgery but lifelong strategies to maintain your health after splenectomy.
Immediate Post-Procedure (1-5 days)
Expect a hospital stay of 1-3 days for a laparoscopic approach or 3-5 days for open surgery
Receive specialized pain management tailored to your procedure type
Begin with clear liquids, advancing to a regular diet as tolerated
Walk frequently to prevent complications and assist with gas pain from laparoscopy
Monitor for signs of bleeding or infection at the surgical site
Begin learning about life without a spleen and infection prevention strategies
Wear compression devices on your legs to prevent blood clots until fully mobile
Observe platelet counts, which may temporarily increase after surgery
Prepare for discharge with a clear understanding of activity restrictions and warning signs
Receive your post-splenectomy vaccination schedule if any vaccines were not completed before surgery
Short-Term Recovery (1-4 weeks)
Attend your follow-up appointment (typically 7-14 days after surgery)
Continue gentle walking daily, gradually increasing distance as comfort allows
Avoid lifting anything heavier than 10 pounds for 2 weeks (laparoscopic) or 4-6 weeks (open)
Monitor incisions for proper healing and report any concerns
Take prescribed medications as directed, including any prophylactic antibiotics
Return to driving once off pain medications and able to perform emergency maneuvers (typically 1-2 weeks)
Return to work based on your surgeon's recommendation and job requirements (typically 2-4 weeks)
Monitor for changes in blood counts, which should stabilize in the coming weeks
Expect some shoulder pain (with laparoscopic approach) and left upper quadrant discomfort
Begin to notice an improvement in pre-operative symptoms related to your splenic condition
Carry your splenectomy alert card or wear medical alert identification
Long-Term Adjustment (1-3 months)
Return to full physical activities gradually, with most restrictions lifted by 6-8 weeks
Complete any remaining post-splenectomy vaccinations per schedule
Follow up with your hematologist regarding blood count monitoring
Develop awareness of early signs of infection requiring prompt treatment
Establish habits for lifelong infection prevention:
Hand hygiene
Avoiding certain high-risk exposures
Recognizing when to seek early medical attention
Observe stabilization of platelet counts and other blood parameters
Notice continued improvement in symptoms that led to splenectomy
Resume normal exercise and activities without restrictions after full healing
Begin long-term follow-up schedule with appropriate specialists
Learn to identify infections that require more urgent attention without a spleen
Long-Term Expectations
Complete internal healing occurs within 3-4 months
Refined incisional appearance that continues to improve over 12-18 months
Resolution of symptoms related to spleen enlargement or overactivity
Normalization of blood counts in most hematologic conditions
Need for lifetime vigilance regarding certain infections
Regular updates to encapsulated bacteria vaccinations (pneumococcal, meningococcal, Haemophilus)
Annual flu vaccination recommended
Consideration of prophylactic antibiotics during high-risk procedures
Normal life expectancy and activity levels with proper precautions
Annual check-ups help ensure continued health monitoring
For children, special attention to infection prevention in school settings
Potential for improved quality of life with resolution of pre-operative symptoms
Awareness of when to mention your asplenic status to healthcare providers
Common Side Effects
Temporary pain or discomfort at incision sites
Shoulder pain from residual CO2 gas (in laparoscopic approach)
Small fluid collection where the spleen was located
Temporarily elevated platelet count
Mild changes in white blood cell counts and appearance
Brief episodes of feeling cold or low-grade fever
Minor bruising around surgical sites
Temporary fatigue during the recovery period
Initial heightened susceptibility to certain infections
Less Common Complications
Bleeding requiring transfusion or reoperation
Surgical site infection
Injury to surrounding structures (stomach, pancreas, colon)
Pancreatitis from manipulation near the pancreatic tail
Thrombosis (blood clots) in splenic vein territory
Subphrenic abscess formation
Pneumonia or other respiratory complications
Incisional hernia development
Overwhelming post-splenectomy infection (OPSI) if vaccination protocol is not followed
Recurrence of hematologic condition if accessory spleen was missed
Gastric dilation or ileus (temporary bowel slowdown)
Conversion from laparoscopic to open procedure if technically necessary
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Fever over 101°F (38.3°C) or shaking chills (requires urgent evaluation due to asplenic status)
Severe, worsening abdominal pain
Significant redness, warmth, swelling, or drainage at incision sites
Reopening of any surgical wound
Severe nausea or vomiting
Increasing abdominal distension or bloating
Shortness of breath or chest pain
Unusual bleeding or bruising
Signs of infection anywhere in the body (especially important after splenectomy)
Severe fatigue or weakness
Pale or yellowing skin
Severe shoulder pain unrelieved by usual measures
From your first consultation through your complete recovery, we provide:
Thorough evaluation and explanation of your condition
Clear discussion of all treatment options, including non-surgical alternatives when appropriate
Detailed pre-operative instructions to help you prepare
Compassionate care during your hospital stay or outpatient procedure
Comprehensive follow-up care and support during recovery
Ongoing availability to address questions or concerns
We understand that facing head and neck surgery can be intimidating, but you don't have to navigate this journey alone. Our team is committed to providing expert care with a personal touch, ensuring you feel supported, informed, and confident every step of the way.
Your health and wellbeing are our highest priorities, and we're honored to be part of your care team.
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All our laparoscopic procedures are performed by our highly trained surgical team using state-of-the-art equipment and techniques.
We're committed to providing you with the most advanced, minimally invasive options because we believe you deserve:
Less pain after surgery
Shorter hospital stays
Faster return to work and activities you enjoy
Smaller, less visible scars
Lower risk of complications
Better overall outcomes
Dr. Richard Nguyen is a board-certified General Surgeon with over 20 years of surgical expertise and fellowship training in Minimally Invasive and Bariatric Surgery from Vanderbilt University. Since establishing his practice in San Jose in 2007, he has pioneered innovative surgical techniques, including single-incision laparoscopic procedures and mastery of the da Vinci Robotic Surgical System. Beyond his acclaimed bariatric surgery practice, he has earned national recognition for his specialized expertise in both non-mesh and advanced mesh hernia repairs, while also serving as a critical approach surgeon for anterior spine access procedures. Dr. Nguyen combines technical precision with personalized care across multiple premier facilities throughout the South Bay Area.
I would refer Doctor Nguyen to anyone, in fact I have and they have all had the same experience as me. He is truly great. I owe all my success to Doctor Nguyen and I thank him for all the work he has done for me and continues to do so. He is extremely amazing, and I am very grateful to him.
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At 50, I now have a life I had only dreamed of a year before. My body tells me if I am done eating. This surgery is a tool that I have used to the fullest. It is not an easy way out. It still took work. But I honestly know that I would not be living this amazing new life if I didn’t step forward to embrace this life-saving surgery.
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Dr. Nguyen has changed my life completely. I feel so much better and I also feel like I’ve got control of my life again…I had high blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol. I took at least 5 different medications for the past 30 years. NOW, after surgery I take no medications only vitamins!
Wondering which surgical procedure might be right for your condition? We're here to help you understand your treatment options and develop a personalized surgical plan. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.
Your path to improved health may be more achievable than you think—with advanced surgical techniques leading to faster recovery, reduced complications, and a significantly enhanced quality of life.