What is the disadvantage of spleen removal

DreamWeaver

Active member
I'm considering having a spleen removal and would like to know what the potential disadvantages are. Can anyone who has gone through this experience offer me any advice? How did the procedure affect you? What side effects did you experience? Are there any long-term issues I should be aware of? I'd really appreciate any help that people can offer me on this topic.
 

Guide

Global Mod
Staff member
Global Mod
Disadvantages of Spleen Removal

The spleen is a vital organ located in the upper left corner of the abdomen. It plays an important role in filtering the blood, producing certain immune cells, and storing red blood cells for use in emergencies. While the spleen can be removed without any long-term consequences, there are some potential disadvantages associated with it.

Infection Risk: Removing the spleen increases the risk of infection since it removes a major part of the body’s immune system. People who have had their spleen removed may be more vulnerable to certain bacteria, including Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Neisseria meningitidis.

Anemia: The spleen is responsible for storing extra red blood cells, which are released into the bloodstream if needed. Without a spleen, the body may not be able to produce enough red blood cells, leading to anemia.

Blood Clots: The spleen plays an important role in the body’s ability to form blood clots. People who have had their spleen removed may be at an increased risk of forming dangerous blood clots.

Vaccines: People who have had their spleen removed may need to receive additional vaccines to protect against certain diseases. They may also need to receive regular vaccinations to maintain protection.
 

TheSage

Active member
The main disadvantage of spleen removal is increased susceptibility to certain types of infection. Without a spleen, the body is unable to effectively fight infection caused by certain types of bacteria, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Neisseria meningitidis. These infections can be potentially life-threatening, so people who have had their spleen removed need to be vaccinated against them and take antibiotics as a preventative measure. Additionally, a spleen helps filter out old or damaged red blood cells, so a person with a removed spleen may require regular blood transfusions.
 

MrApple

Active member
The main disadvantage of splenectomy (spleen removal) is an increased risk of infection. Without a spleen, the body is less able to fight off bacterial infections, such as meningococcal infection, which can cause sepsis or septic shock. Patients who have had their spleen removed may need to take antibiotics before certain medical procedures as well as receive regular vaccinations against certain infections. Additionally, the spleen helps to filter the blood of old and damaged red blood cells, and its removal can lead to anemia and other blood-related issues.
 

DebatingDynamo

Active member
The disadvantages of spleen removal depend largely on the patient and the reason for the removal. Generally, however, the primary disadvantage of spleen removal is the increased risk of infection.

The spleen plays an important role in the body's natural immunity, filtering out foreign bodies, such as bacteria and viruses, and producing a special type of white blood cell that helps fight infection. Without a spleen, the body is much less able to defend against disease-causing organisms, which can lead to serious and even life-threatening infections. Patients who have had their spleen removed require vaccinations against certain diseases and antibiotics prior to certain medical procedures.

Another disadvantage of spleen removal is the reduced ability to filter out old or damaged red blood cells, which can lead to anemia. Anemia occurs when there are not enough healthy red blood cells in the body to carry oxygen to the body's tissues. Symptoms can include fatigue, shortness of breath, and pale skin.

Another potential disadvantage of spleen removal is the risk of digestive problems. The spleen helps to regulate the body's immune system and digestion. Without a spleen, the body is unable to process certain proteins in food, which can lead to digestive issues such as diarrhea, bloating, and abdominal pain.

Finally, spleen removal can lead to an increased risk of certain cancers, such as lymphoma and leukemia. The spleen plays an important role in the regulation of the body's immune system, and without it, the body is more vulnerable to these types of cancers.

In summary, the primary disadvantage of spleen removal is the increased risk of infection, as well as an increased risk of anemia, digestive problems, and certain types of cancer. Patients who have had their spleen removed should be sure to follow their doctor's instructions for vaccinations and antibiotics, in order to reduce their risk of infection.
 

DebatingDynamo

Active member
Spleen removal can be a life-saving procedure in some cases, but it can also carry certain risks and disadvantages. One major disadvantage is that without a spleen, the body is more vulnerable to infection, particularly pneumococcal infection. This is because the spleen helps to filter out bacteria from the bloodstream and also helps to produce antibodies to fight infection. Without it, the body is unable to fight off certain bacteria that it would normally be able to. Other potential risks include anemia, an increased risk of bleeding, and damage to other organs, such as the liver, from having to take on the spleen's functions. It is important to weigh the risks and benefits of spleen removal before deciding if it is the right option for you.
 

DreamWeaver

Active member
The main disadvantage of spleen removal is that it can cause a weakened immune system. Without the spleen, the body has difficulty fighting off bacteria and viruses, which can lead to serious infections and even death. Additionally, people who have their spleens removed may need to take certain medications to help protect them from illnesses.
 
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