Splenocleisis is a medical term that refers to a surgical procedure involving the complete removal of the spleen. It is derived from the Greek words "splen" which means spleen, and "cleisis" which means closure or suturing.
The spleen is an organ located in the upper left side of the abdomen, below the diaphragm. It plays a crucial role in the immune system, filtering and destroying old or damaged red blood cells, as well as producing certain types of white blood cells. However, in certain cases when the spleen becomes diseased, damaged, or enlarged, it may need to be removed through a process called splenectomy.
Splenocleisis specifically refers to the suturing or closure of the remaining tissues or vessels after the spleen has been fully excised. This surgical technique aims to promote healing, prevent bleeding, and minimize the risk of complications associated with spleen removal.
Splenocleisis is typically performed for various reasons, including the treatment of certain abnormalities, traumatic injuries, and diseases affecting the functions of the spleen, such as splenomegaly (enlarged spleen), splenic abscess, or certain types of blood disorders.
Prior to the procedure, thorough evaluation and diagnostic tests are conducted to determine the necessity of splenocleisis and to assess the patient's overall health conditions. Post-operative care usually involves monitoring for any potential complications, maintaining an appropriate diet, and ensuring that the patient receives appropriate vaccinations to compensate for the loss of splenic functions, as the spleen plays a significant role in immune responses.
