Indications for splenectomy in a tertiary care hospital

Abstract

Introduction: The spleen plays an important role in immune-surveillance and haematopoiesis. Its role in the fight against infection, especially infection of encapsulated organisms, is particularly significant. It also removes intracellular inclusions (pitting) and filters aged blood cellular elements from circulation. Aim: This study aims at the indications for elective splenectomy and the outcomes at a tertiary care centre. Materials and Methods: We conducted a Prospective observational study done for 3 years. Total 42 patients who underwent splenectomy, both emergency and elective were included for data collection. Inclusion criteria for the study were all the patients undergoing splenectomy. The spleen was approached via an upper midline or left subcostal incision. Results: In 42 patients with splenectomy M=mean age of the patients was 37.9 ±15.42 years, of which 23(54.8%) are males and 19(45.2%) were females. A majority of the patients were in the age group of 18-45 years. Most common indication was haematological in 42 patients, of which 20 (47.6%). traumatic Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) cause have 8 patients (19%).Most of the patients 3 (60%) patients have complications after trauma. Conclusions: Most cases of splenectomy in our centre caused by trauma, and among the different types of trauma, blunt trauma is the dominant cause. splenectomy must be undertaken only after anticipating both, short- and long-term risks and potential benefits to the patient.