A splenectomy is the surgical removal of the spleen. The spleen is responsible for a number of functions including, the production of some red blood cells, storage of red blood cells & platelets and removal of old or abnormal blood cells. If the spleen is ruptured or damaged, it can lose a large volume of blood which pools into the abdomen.

Although the spleen can be damaged through trauma, such as an Road traffic accident, other conditions may require the spleen to be removed, such as a tumour.

Recovery post surgery can be long and careful monitoring is required.