Splenectomy for Haematological Disorders

The spleen in haematological conditions is enlarged often. This leads to destruction of cell lines and especially platelets, and becomes the cause of red cell destruction and iron overload in haemolytic conditions. Massive enlargement also places the spleen at risk of injury and exsanguinating intraperitoneal haemorrhage. Rarely, it becomes so large that it restricts the daily activities of the patient. Usually a total splenectomy is done for hematological disorders. Rarely, partial splenectomy may be indicated in some metabolic conditions such as Gaucher’s disease.