How is a patient positioned for splenectomy?

Laparoscopic splenectomy is preferentially performed in the right lateral decubitus position but may also be performed with the patient supine. Open splenectomy is performed in the supine position.

What incision is used for a splenectomy?

In most patients undergoing splenectomy for a hematologic disorder, a left subcostal incision is employed, beginning to the right of the midline and proceeding obliquely to the left approximately two fingerbreadths below the costal margin. This incision yields excellent exposure (see the image below).

What is the approach procedure of a splenectomy?

Splenectomy can be performed using a laparoscopic approach or open laparotomy. The laparoscopic approach can be performed standard laparoscopic approach, hand-assisted laparoscopic approach, and now robotic-assisted.

What are the four main functions of the spleen?

Function

Stores blood.
Filters blood by removing cellular waste and getting rid of old or damaged blood cells.
Makes white blood cells and antibodies that help you fight infection.
Maintains the levels of fluid in your body.
Produces antibodies that protect you against infection.

What are the functions of the spleen?

The spleen has some important functions:

it fights invading germs in the blood (the spleen contains infection-fighting white blood cells)
it controls the level of blood cells (white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets)
it filters the blood and removes any old or damaged red blood cells.

What instruments are used in a splenectomy?

A standard laparoscopic tray is used for a laparoscopic splenectomy, including laparoscopic scissors and atraumatic graspers. Telescopes, including a 30° or 45° 5- or 10-mm laparoscope, are used, depending on the surgeon’s preference and need for visualization.

What are the functions of spleen?

What does the spleen do?

Stores blood.
Filters blood by removing cellular waste and getting rid of old or damaged blood cells.
Makes white blood cells and antibodies that help you fight infection.
Maintains the levels of fluid in your body.
Produces antibodies that protect you against infection.