Understanding Splenectomy Surgery and How It Affects Your Pet
When your vet mentions that your pet might need a splenectomy—the surgical removal of the spleen—it’s natural to feel concerned. The spleen plays an important role in filtering blood and supporting the immune system. However, in certain situations, removing it is the best option to protect your pet’s health and quality of life.
This article will walk you through why splenectomy is performed, what to expect during surgery, and how to care for your pet afterward.
Why Would a Pet Need a Splenectomy?
Splenectomy is often necessary when the spleen becomes diseased, damaged, or poses a risk to your pet’s overall health. Common reasons for this surgery include:
1. Splenic Tumors
Splenic tumors are one of the most common reasons for a splenectomy. These tumors can either be benign, meaning they do not spread or cause further harm, or malignant, indicating they are cancerous and could metastasize to other parts of the body.
Among malignant tumors, hemangiosarcoma is particularly aggressive and frequently affects the spleen in dogs. This condition can lead to sudden internal bleeding, weakness, and collapse. If left untreated, it often becomes life-threatening, making splenectomy a crucial procedure for survival. Early detection through imaging tests like ultrasounds or X-rays can help in determining the best course of action.
2. Splenic Torsion
Splenic torsion is a rare but serious condition where the spleen twists around its blood vessels, cutting off its own blood supply. This causes the organ to enlarge, leading to pain and discomfort. Symptoms may include severe abdominal pain, vomiting, lethargy, and collapse.
The condition is most commonly seen in large, deep-chested dog breeds such as Great Danes and German Shepherds. If not treated promptly, splenic torsion can result in necrosis, or tissue death, leading to severe complications. In these cases, an emergency splenectomy is the only way to resolve the issue and prevent further damage.
3. Ruptured Spleen Due to Trauma
A pet can suffer a ruptured spleen due to trauma or blunt-force injuries, such as being hit by a car, falling from a significant height, or sustaining a heavy blow. The spleen is a highly vascular organ, meaning any rupture can cause severe internal bleeding. If a rupture occurs, the pet may exhibit symptoms such as pale gums, rapid breathing, weakness, and signs of shock.
In many instances, surgical intervention is the only way to stop the bleeding and save the pet’s life. If internal bleeding is excessive, a blood transfusion may be necessary before or during surgery to stabilize the pet’s condition.
4. Autoimmune Disorders Affecting the Spleen
Certain autoimmune disorders, such as immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA), cause the pet’s immune system to attack its own red blood cells. This leads to severe anemia, weakness, and difficulty breathing. The spleen plays a key role in filtering out damaged red blood cells, but in conditions like IMHA, it may exacerbate the destruction process.
In some cases, removing the spleen can significantly reduce the severity of the disease and improve the pet’s quality of life. While splenectomy does not cure autoimmune disorders, it can be an effective management strategy when combined with medications like steroids or immunosuppressants.
What Happens During a Splenectomy?
Before Surgery: Preparing Your Pet
Diagnostic Tests
Your vet will perform blood tests, ultrasounds, and X-rays to confirm that splenectomy is necessary. These tests help assess the overall health of your pet and determine if there are any underlying conditions that may complicate the surgery. Imaging tests such as ultrasounds provide a clearer picture of the spleen's condition and help rule out other possible issues.
Tumor Assessment
If your pet has a tumor, additional tests may be done to check for cancer spread (metastasis). This may involve advanced imaging techniques like CT scans or MRI, as well as biopsy procedures to evaluate the malignancy of the tumor. Understanding whether the tumor has spread is essential for determining the best course of action and ensuring the most effective treatment plan.
Blood Transfusion Consideration
Your pet may need a blood transfusion before surgery if they have been losing a significant amount of blood. Since the spleen plays a role in blood storage and circulation, its removal can lead to a decrease in red blood cell count. The vet will monitor your pet’s blood levels closely to determine if a transfusion is necessary to stabilize them before and after the procedure.
During Surgery: The Procedure
General Anesthesia
Splenectomy is performed under general anesthesia to ensure that your pet remains pain-free and unconscious throughout the procedure. The anesthesia team will monitor your pet’s vital signs, such as heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure, to maintain stability during the surgery.
Surgical Procedure
The vet makes an incision in the abdomen, carefully removes the spleen, and controls any bleeding. Depending on the condition of the spleen, additional techniques like electrocautery or ligation may be used to seal blood vessels and prevent excessive blood loss. The vet will take extra precautions to minimize the risk of complications and ensure a smooth procedure.
Tissue Sampling and Post-Surgery Testing
If the spleen was removed due to a tumor, the vet may take tissue samples for further testing. These samples are sent to a pathology lab to determine whether the tumor was benign or malignant. If cancer is confirmed, additional treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be recommended to prevent the spread of cancerous cells.
After Surgery: Immediate Recovery
Post-Surgery Monitoring
Pets are monitored closely after surgery, as complications like bleeding, infection, or irregular heart rhythms can occur. The first few hours post-surgery are critical, and the veterinary team will keep a close eye on your pet’s heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels. If any signs of distress or complications arise, immediate interventions will be taken.
Pain Management
Vets give pain relievers and antibiotics to pets to prevent discomfort and infections. Medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs and opioids may be administered to manage pain, ensuring your pet remains as comfortable as possible during recovery. Antibiotics are prescribed to prevent infections, especially since abdominal surgery increases the risk of bacterial exposure.
Hydration and Recovery Time
Your pet may also require intravenous fluids to stay hydrated and maintain stable blood pressure. Depending on their condition, they may need to stay at the veterinary clinic for observation for at least 24 hours before being discharged for at-home recovery.
Life Without a Spleen: How Will It Affect Your Pet?
Many pet owners worry about how their pets will live without a spleen. The good news is that most pets recover well and live everyday lives. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
1. Immune System Adjustments
The spleen filters old blood cells and fights infections, but other organs, like the liver and bone marrow, take over these functions. Pets without a spleen may be slightly more prone to infections, so regular vet check-ups are essential.
2. Long-Term Monitoring
If the spleen was removed due to cancer, your vet may recommend periodic scans and bloodwork to check for any recurrence. If your pet has a ruptured spleen or immune-related condition, regular health assessments will help catch any issues early.
3. Adjustments to Diet and Lifestyle
Most pets do not require special diets after a splenectomy, but a nutrient-rich, well-balanced diet supports their overall health. Some pets may have reduced energy levels for a few weeks, so gradual exercise is recommended.
Post-Surgery Care: Helping Your Pet Recover
At-Home Recovery Tips
Provide a quiet and comfortable space for your pet to rest. Monitor the incision site daily for swelling, redness, or discharge. Limit activity to prevent strain on the healing abdomen. Give prescribed medications exactly as directed by your vet. Watch for signs of pain, lethargy, vomiting, or loss of appetite—these could indicate complications.
Follow-Up Vet Visits
Your pet must return for a post-op check-up within 7 to 14 days. If stitches were used, they may need to be removed or checked for proper healing.
When to Call the Vet
If you notice any of these signs after surgery, contact your vet immediately:
- Excessive bleeding or swelling at the incision site
- Loss of appetite for more than 24 hours
- Lethargy, weakness, or difficulty breathing
- Vomiting or diarrhea that doesn’t improve
Worried About Your Pet’s Health? We’re Here to Help.
If your pets are in an emergency or if you have general inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact Veterinary Emergency Centre.
General Hotline: 2334-2334
24-Hour Emergency Hotline: 6828-6620
