Splenectomy is also known as spleen removal and is a surgery that is required if there is damage or tumors located in the area. Spleen tumors are more common in certain dog breeds such as German shepherds and are found more frequently in older dogs. The surgery is simple and will involve the removal of the entire organ.
Conditions that Require Splenectomy
Splenectomy is a surgery that is dictated by a number of conditions including:
- Damage or trauma to the spleen (car accidents, fights)
- Tumors located on the spleen such as hemangiosarcoma, which can be operated on only if in the first 2 stages of development and don’t involve other organs also
- Splenic torsion, which involves the twisting of the blood vessels that carry blood to the spleen. This condition is more common in dogs that are also affected by gastric dilation
Establishing If Splenectomy Is Needed
The vet will examine the pet to establish if the splenectomy surgery is necessary and possible.
The vet may perform tests such as:
- A complete blood count, which can indicate if the pet is affected by a tumor
- X-rays in the abdominal area, which will reveal if there is a tumor, a rupture of the spleen or splenic torsion
- Chest x-rays may also be needed, if the vet suspects a tumor, which may easily spread to the lungs
- Biopsy, if there is a tumor
- Abdominocentesis, a test that will extract fluid from the abdominal cavity and may be recommended if the vet suspects a ruptured spleen
The blood tests are also important to test the function of the kidneys and the liver, to establish if the surgery and the anesthesia are safe to be performed.
How the Procedure Is Performed
The spelnectomy procedure will require a small incision in the abdominal cavity. The vet will remove the entire organ, since the dog can survive even without the organ.
The procedure is simple and will take only up to 60 minutes.
The dog will receive some stitches.
Preparation and Additional Treatment
The procedure will be performed under anesthesia and the dog needs to remain under medical surveillance for at least 24 hours after the surgery. Inform the vet if your dog has any medication allergies.
However, if the spleen is ruptured, the dog’s condition must be stabilized prior to surgery. IV fluids and blood transfusions may be needed.
If the dog has a malignant tumor and this is removed together with the spleen, the dog will also need to get some additional treatment. This can be made up of chemo drugs and radiation therapy.
Make sure your pet will rest for 1 to 2 weeks after the surgery.
Risks and Side Effects of Splenectomy
The splenectomy surgery may have some side effects such as swelling and redness at the incision site.
The possible risks associated with this surgery include excessive bleeding during surgery or infections post surgery.