Spleen Surgery (Splenectomy) in Limassol

The spleen is an organ of the immune system in the upper left abdomen. Removing it (splenectomy) is needed for certain blood disorders, for tumours and cysts of the spleen, for abscesses and after injury. When the condition is a blood disorder, the decision is taken together with the haematologist. I see patients at my clinics in Limassol and Nicosia and operate at the German Medical Institute in Limassol.

Conditions treated

  • blood disorders such as immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) and haemolytic anaemia

  • an enlarged spleen and hypersplenism

  • tumours and focal lesions of the spleen

  • cysts, parasitic conditions and abscesses

  • injury and rupture of the spleen, and vascular conditions of the spleen

When to see a surgeon

  • when your haematologist has recommended a splenectomy and you want to discuss the operation

  • when a scan has shown a lesion or an enlarged spleen

  • when you want a second opinion on a proposed treatment

Severe pain in the upper left abdomen or shoulder after a blow, dizziness or fainting, or fever with chills in a person without a spleen needs urgent assessment. Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department.

Assessment

Assessment includes a clinical examination, blood tests and imaging, with an ultrasound and, where needed, a CT or MRI scan. In blood disorders the condition is reviewed together with the haematologist to choose the right time for the operation.

Vaccinations before the operation

Without a spleen the risk of serious infection is higher. For this reason, when the operation is planned, vaccinations against the bacteria that cause the most serious infections (pneumococcus, meningococcus and Haemophilus) are given beforehand, following current guidance. After the operation you will be given advice on preventing infection and on what to do promptly if you develop a fever.

The operation

Splenectomy is usually performed laparoscopically, through small incisions. When the spleen is very large or the situation is an emergency, an open operation may be needed. After injury, preserving the spleen is attempted where possible. The risks and expected results are discussed with you before the operation.

Recovery

After laparoscopic splenectomy the hospital stay is usually a few days. Most patients return to light activity within a few days and to work within two to four weeks, depending on their job and their condition. Heavy lifting is limited for several weeks. You will receive written instructions, together with a vaccination and follow-up plan.

Where and when

  • Limassol (clinic and surgery): German Medical Institute, 1 Nikis Avenue, 4108 Agios Athanasios. Monday–Friday, 08:00–16:00, by appointment.

  • Nicosia (clinic): Zoi Medical Diagnostic Center, 2 Dimofontos Street, 1075 Nicosia. Wednesday afternoon, by appointment. If an operation is needed, it takes place in Limassol.

  • Appointments: +357 25 208265

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To book an appointment or discuss your case, contact the clinic.

This information is general and does not replace individualised medical assessment.