The spleen, similar in structure to a large lymph node, acts as a blood filter, and is an important part of the body’s immune system as well, especially in children under the age of 5 years old.
Splenectomy means the surgical removal of the spleen.It is removed under specific circumstances: Due to trauma, specific blood disorders (ITP, TTP, Spherocytosis,…), and infiltration by tumors.
If not significantly enlarged, splenectomy can be done laparoscopically, especially in ITP cases, where it is normal in size. Even when slightly enlarged and laparoscopic space is available, this approach carries the definite benefit of preventing wound complications of an open procedure.