A splenorrhaphy is a specialized surgical procedure that involves repairing, rather than removing, a damaged or injured spleen. At our practice, we understand the significant immune benefits of preserving the spleen whenever safely possible. That's why we're committed to providing expert, organ-preserving care while helping you understand each step of your medical care. This meticulous procedure effectively treats certain splenic injuries, particularly those from trauma, when the damage is amenable to repair rather than requiring complete removal.
At Lifetime Surgical, our splenorrhaphy approach utilizes advanced hemostatic techniques including specialized suturing methods, topical hemostatic agents, and partial wrapping procedures. We employ careful patient selection and surgical judgment to determine when spleen preservation is appropriate without compromising safety. Our commitment to organ preservation when possible means reduced long-term infectious risks while maintaining the spleen's important immune and blood filtration functions, resulting in optimal long-term health outcomes while effectively addressing the immediate injury.
You may need a splenorrhaphy if you experience:
Traumatic injury to the spleen (often from car accidents, sports injuries, or falls)
Grade I-III splenic lacerations according to the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma (AAST) scale
Splenic injury with hemodynamic stability
Controlled bleeding from a splenic injury
Iatrogenic (accidental) splenic injury during another surgical procedure
Small splenic pseudoaneurysm
Localized splenic abscess amenable to drainage and repair
Certain biopsied splenic lesions
Superficial splenic tears or capsular avulsions
Moderate subcapsular hematomas
Limited polar (end) injuries to the spleen
Splenic injuries in children (where preservation is particularly emphasized)
Partial-thickness lacerations without major vascular involvement
Injuries to an enlarged spleen that would benefit from partial debulking and repair
Stable patients with isolated splenic trauma
Our approach to splenorrhaphy combines precision with personalized care. The procedure begins with a comprehensive evaluation through specialized imaging and careful assessment of hemodynamic stability to determine if spleen preservation is appropriate and safe. What characterizes us is our surgeon's expertise in multiple repair techniques, selecting the optimal approach based on the specific nature and location of your splenic injury. For accessible injuries, we employ direct suturing techniques using special non-cutting needles and pledgets (small buttressing materials) to reinforce the delicate splenic tissue and prevent suture pull-through.
Our distinctive approach includes the use of advanced hemostatic agents such as fibrin sealants, gelatin matrices, and oxidized cellulose that promote clotting on the splenic surface. For deeper injuries, we may utilize specialized mesh wrapping techniques that provide gentle compression to control bleeding while allowing continued circulation to the organ.
Throughout your care journey, we implement meticulous post-operative monitoring for any signs of delayed bleeding. Our multidisciplinary team includes trauma specialists, interventional radiologists, and hematologists who contribute to both the initial decision-making and follow-up care. This comprehensive approach ensures optimal outcomes when attempting spleen preservation, with the flexibility to convert to partial or complete splenectomy if needed for patient safety, always balancing the immediate needs with the long-term benefits of maintaining splenic function.
Immediate Post-Procedure (1-7 days)
Expect a hospital stay of 5-7 days for close monitoring of potential delayed bleeding
Receive specialized pain management for surgical discomfort
Undergo serial blood counts to monitor for hidden blood loss
Maintain limited activity to reduce stress on the repaired spleen
Receive intravenous fluids and advance to oral intake as tolerated
Undergo repeat imaging (typically CT scan) before discharge to confirm stability
Learn about signs of potential delayed splenic bleeding
Begin to understand activity restrictions that will continue after discharge
Experience initial improvement in pain and discomfort as the repair stabilizes
Prepare for discharge with clear instructions about when to seek emergency care
Meet with specialists to discuss long-term splenic monitoring if needed
Short-Term Recovery (1-6 weeks)
Attend your follow-up appointment (typically 10-14 days after surgery)
Undergo follow-up imaging to confirm continued healing of the spleen
Maintain restricted physical activity, avoiding:
Contact sports
Heavy lifting (nothing over 10 pounds)
Activities with fall risk
High-impact exercise
Monitor for any signs of delayed splenic bleeding or infection
Take prescribed medications as directed, including pain control
Return to sedentary work or school based on your surgeon's recommendation (typically 2-3 weeks)
Continue gentle walking and gradually increase as comfort allows
Report any new or worsening upper left abdominal pain immediately
Begin to notice improved comfort as the initial surgical pain resolves
Avoid straining during bowel movements to reduce intra-abdominal pressure
Review post-traumatic stress resources if your injury was from a traumatic event
Long-Term Adjustment (2-6 months)
Undergo follow-up imaging at 3 months to confirm complete healing
Begin gradual return to normal activities based on imaging results
Follow your surgeon's guidance on when to resume:
More vigorous exercise
Heavier lifting
Driving (if previously restricted)
Learn about the small risk of delayed splenic rupture and its warning signs
Discuss appropriate timeline for return to contact sports (often 4-6 months)
Resume full work responsibilities as cleared by your surgeon
Recognize that the spleen continues internal healing even after external incisions have healed
Monitor for any unusual susceptibility to infections during this period
Notice continued improvement in comfort and function in the left upper abdomen
Understand the successful preservation of your splenic function and its benefits
Follow up with any recommended vaccinations based on the extent of your splenic injury
Long-Term Expectations
Complete internal healing of the spleen typically occurs within 6 months
Subtle external healing evidence that gradually improves over 12-18 months
Preservation of normal splenic immune function in most cases
No need for the special infection precautions required after splenectomy
Normal life expectancy and activity levels once fully healed
Minimal to no long-term dietary or medication requirements
Ability to eventually return to all desired activities including sports
Periodic imaging may be recommended in the first year to confirm stability
Protection against the increased infection risks associated with asplenia
Maintenance of normal blood cell cycling and filtering functions
Small risk (approximately 2-5%) of delayed splenic failure requiring later intervention
Normal splenic contribution to the immune system throughout life
Common Side Effects
Temporary pain or discomfort at the surgical site
Mild left shoulder pain (referred pain from the diaphragm)
Temporary fatigue during the recovery period
Sensation of fullness or pressure in the left upper abdomen
Mild bruising around incision sites
Temporary digestive changes during initial recovery
Some activity limitations during the healing phase
Need for follow-up imaging studies
Less Common Complications
Delayed splenic bleeding requiring reoperation or splenectomy (5-15%)
Splenic infarction (death of a portion of splenic tissue)
Surgical site infection
Subphrenic abscess formation
Pleural effusion (fluid around the lungs)
Pneumonia or atelectasis (lung collapse)
Missed associated injuries
Pancreatic injury or pancreatitis due to proximity
Development of pseudocyst at the repair site
Inadequate function of the remaining splenic tissue
Incisional hernia at the surgical access site
Adhesion formation leading to later bowel obstruction
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Severe, worsening abdominal pain, especially in the left upper quadrant
New onset left shoulder pain (may indicate diaphragm irritation from bleeding)
Lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting
Increased heart rate at rest (over 100 beats per minute)
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Fever over 101°F (38.3°C)
Distended or rigid abdomen
Significant new bruising around the naval or flanks
Sudden drop in blood pressure
Unusually pale appearance or excessive sweating
Severe weakness or fatigue that worsens suddenly
Severe nausea or vomiting
Signs of wound infection (redness, warmth, drainage)
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.