Splenectomy, the surgical removal of the spleen, is performed in pets for various medical reasons. This is a very common surgery for our practice and are doctors are very experenced in preforming. Fortunately pets can do well with out thrier spleens if removal is warranted. The decision to undergo a splenectomy is typically based on the specific health condition affecting the animal. Here are some common reasons why splenectomy might be done in pets:
Tumors or Masses: The spleen can be affected by tumors, both benign and malignant. Hemangiomas and hemangiosarcomas are examples of tumors that may develop in the spleen. Surgical removal of the spleen is often recommended to address these conditions. Once removed the tissue is sent for testing to determine if there is cancer or not.
Splenomegaly: Enlargement of the spleen, known as splenomegaly, can occur due to various reasons such as infection, inflammation, or certain diseases. When the spleen becomes excessively enlarged, it may compromise the pet's overall health, and removal may be necessary to get testing performed on the tissue.
Trauma or Rupture: Blunt force trauma or injury to the abdomen can lead to spleen rupture or other severe damage. In cases of trauma, emergency splenectomy may be required to stop internal bleeding and stabilize the pet. At times this can present as a mass or tumor of the spleen, but on testing we find it is due to truama. Unfortunatley tumors, bruises, and hemorage of the spleen all look the same to the eye.
Immune-Mediated Diseases: Some immune-mediated disorders can affect the spleen, causing it to trap and destroy blood cells. In cases where medical management is ineffective, splenectomy may be considered to alleviate symptoms and improve the pet's condition.
Splenic Torsion: Torsion, or twisting, of the spleen can occur, leading to compromised blood flow and potential tissue damage. Emergency splenectomy may be required to address this life-threatening situation.
Possible Complicaitons of Spleenectomy
Splenectomy in pets is generally considered a safe and effective procedure, but as with any surgery, there are potential complications. It's essential for pet owners to be aware of these risk. Common complications associated with splenectomy in pets may include:
Infection: Surgical sites can become infected. Antibiotics are often prescribed postoperatively to minimize this risk.
Hemorrhage: Excessive bleeding during or after surgery can occur. Surgeons take precautions to control bleeding, but additional interventions may be necessary in some cases.
Incision Dehiscence: The skin incision coming apart is very rare. There are three laywers of tissue closed, but if the pet is allowed to chew and lick at the incision they can open the wound through all layers. Also, if the pet is allowed to be too active and allowed to run and play to agressively after surgery they can break the sutures allowing the wound to open. Its critical you rest your pet after surgery and not allow them to lick and chew at the incision.
Adverse Reactions to Anesthesia: Some pets may have adverse reactions to anesthesia, though this is relatively rare with modern anesthetic protocols.
Pneumonia: Aspiration pneumonia can occur if the pet inhales stomach contents during the anesthesia period. More often than not pets have actually aspieted prior to surgery. The intubation tube helps protect a pets airway during surgery, but many pets having this procedure done have a prior history of vomiting. Pets that develople Pneumonia with a day or so of surgery are more likley due to pre surgery aspiration. Those that develp 7 days or more after surgery may be due to aspiration in recovery or after surgery.
Thrombosis: Formation of blood clots in blood vessels can be a risk post-surgery, potentially leading to complications such as stroke or other organ damage.
Delayed Gastric Emptying: The stomach and the spleen are closely assocated and share even some blood supply. Changes in the way the stomach sits it the abdomen may cause some disruption in how it empties. This may result in vomiting or gastrointestinal issues.
Pancreatitis: Portions of the pancrease is closely assocated with the stomach and spleen. It can be damaged by compromised blood flow or handling during surgery resultign in inflammation of the pancrease. This can lead to vomiting and other symptoms of pancreatitis.
Sepsis: In severe cases, infection from the surgical site can lead to systemic infection (sepsis).
Recovery Issues: Some pets may experience difficulty recovering from surgery, which could manifest as lethargy, poor appetite, or other signs of discomfort.
It's important to note that the likelihood of complications can vary based on the pet's overall health, the reason for the splenectomy, and the surgical technique used. Veterinary surgeons take precautions to minimize risks and provide postoperative care to ensure a smooth recovery. Pet owners should closely follow postoperative care instructions, monitor their pets for any signs of distress or complications, and promptly communicate with the veterinarian if concerns arise.