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laparoscopic splenectomy and shunt surgeries

Splenectomy and Shunt Surgeries

Laparoscopic Splenectomy and Shunt Surgeries in Kolkata

The spleen is a vital organ that fights infection and removes damaged or outdated blood cells. It is situated under your rib cage on the upper left side of your abdomen. The term "Splenectomy" refers to the procedure used to remove your spleen. It is primarily performed in cases of ruptured spleens. Nowadays, less invasive methods like laparoscopy are commonly used to execute this treatment.

Manipal Hospitals in Mukundapur, Kolkata, provides Distal Sphenorenal Shunt (DSRS) surgery. By doing this treatment, the pressure in your portal vein—which transports blood from your digestive tract to your liver—will be reduced. A Distal Splenorenal Shunt diverts blood flow from the portal vein, which aids in the prevention or management of bleeding. During this procedure, the hypertensive splenic vein is severed from the portal vein and rejoined to the left kidney vein.

FAQ's

The spleen is a small, dark-purple organ located on the upper left side of the abdomen, just below the rib cage. It filters foreign substances and worn-out blood cells from the blood, regulates blood flow to the liver, and stores blood cells.

You might need a Splenectomy if your spleen is damaged, leading to a rupture that can cause life-threatening internal bleeding.

A Splenectomy is often needed due to injuries from car accidents or sudden blows to the abdomen while playing contact sports. Spleen removal is also done to treat conditions like idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), an autoimmune disorder where antibodies attack blood platelets.

Most patients are eligible for Laparoscopic Splenectomy, but the size of the spleen can be a deciding factor. Large spleens may require a different approach. The surgeon's experience also plays a key role in the procedure's success.

Yes, you can live without your spleen, although you will have a higher risk of infection.

If an emergency Splenectomy is needed due to a ruptured spleen, immediate surgery is performed. Otherwise, preparation includes a physical exam, blood work, and imaging tests like chest X-rays, electrocardiogram (EKG), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, and computed tomography (CT) scan. You might need to follow a special diet and take medication to clear your bowels. You should also avoid eating or drinking on the day of surgery. Vaccines or medications are given before the surgery to prevent infections that might occur after the spleen is removed.

During a Laparoscopic Splenectomy, a slender tool called a laparoscope is used. The surgeon makes three or four small incisions in the abdomen and inserts the laparoscope through one of the incisions. The surgeon looks into the abdominal area and locates the spleen. The surgeon uses other instruments to disconnect and remove the spleen through the largest incision. Afterwards, the surgical openings are stitched back or sutured.

Recovery from Laparoscopic Splenectomy usually means a 2-3 day hospital stay. An Open Splenectomy may require up to a week. Patients get pain medication and receive instructions from the surgeon on when they can resume normal activities.

Complications after Laparoscopic Splenectomy are rare. Possible complications may include infections at the incision sites, pneumonia, internal bleeding, or abdominal infections.

The results may differ based on your overall condition. Usually, you may experience less postoperative pain, shorter hospital stays, a quicker return to normal activities, and better cosmetic results.

DSRS is a surgical procedure to relieve pressure in the portal vein. This procedure helps surgeons control bleeding and related complications.

DSRS may be recommended if you have enlarged or bleeding veins in your stomach or oesophagus due to portal hypertension, which can also cause an enlarged spleen.

DSRS surgically redirects blood flow using an existing vein, while procedures like Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS) use a catheter-based technique. TIPS is generally more common. Other Splenorenal Shunts include:

  • Proximal Splenorenal Shunt: Your spleen may need to be removed so that the surgeon can insert this shunt.

  • Spontaneous Splenorenal Shunt (SSRS): It happens on its own due to advanced liver disease when blood that cannot pass through the liver reverses its flow.

DSRS takes about four hours and is performed under general anaesthesia. Then your surgeon does the following steps:

  • Disconnects the vein that is attached to the spleen from the portal vein.

  • Attaches the splenic vein to the vein of the left kidney to create a new path for blood flow.

While DSRS is safe and effective, the highest risk of bleeding occurs within the first-month post-surgery. Our healthcare team at Manipal Hospitals will help manage this risk and ensure your safety.

At Manipal Hospitals, we specialise in performing complex Splenectomy and Sunt Procedures using advanced technology and a multidisciplinary team. Our comprehensive strategy guarantees the greatest results for our patients.

To book an appointment, you can contact us directly by phone or visit our website to schedule a consultation and learn more about Splenectomy and Shunt Surgery treatment.

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