Splenectomy

Expert Surgical Care is Just a Call Away

If your pet is lethargic, has pale gums, or has been diagnosed with a splenic mass, timing is everything.

Discovering a mass on your dog’s spleen or facing an emergency rupture is one of the most stressful experiences a pet owner can have.

Whether it’s a planned procedure or an urgent intervention, our surgical team provides the precision, technology, and post-operative support your pet needs to recover safely.

What Sets Our Care Apart?

♦ Advanced Monitoring: We use continuous ECG and blood pressure monitoring throughout the procedure to ensure maximum safety.
♦ Blood Bank Access: In the event of severe anemia, we have blood products on-site for immediate transfusion.
♦ Pain Management: A customized "comfort plan" using local blocks and intravenous pain relief to ensure a peaceful wake-up.
♦ Clear Communication: We walk you through the pathology results and provide a clear roadmap for any necessary follow-up care or oncology.

What to Expect

The Surgical Process

♦ Diagnostics- Advances ultrasound and bloodwork to assess the mass and check for anemia
♦ Precision Surgery- We utilize Ligasure technology or surgical staples to seal blood vessels instantly, minimizing time under anesthesia
♦ Biopsy & Pathology- Every spleen removed is sent to a board-certified pathologist to determine if the mass was benign or malignant
♦ Critical Care- 24/7 monitoring post-surgery to manage blood pressure and watch for arrhythmias (VPCs)

Post Operative Recovery:

Most pets stay with us for twelve (12) to twenty four (24) hours for monitoring. Once home, your pet will need:

♦ Strict Rest: 10–14 days of "leash-only" activity to allow the abdominal incision to heal.
♦ Incision Care: Monitoring for swelling or redness.
♦ Appetite Support: Gentle meals to help their digestive system get back on track.

Important Note: A splenic mass is not an automatic "death sentence." Roughly 50% of splenic masses are benign. Surgery is the only way to get a definitive diagnosis and stop the risk of internal bleeding.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Splenectomy?

A splenectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the spleen. The spleen helps filter blood and supports the immune system, but pets can live healthy lives without it.

Common Reasons for Surgery:

♦ Splenic Masses: Removing tumors (such as Hemangiosarcoma or Benign Hemangiomas) to prevent rupture.
♦ Hemoperitoneum: Emergency surgery to stop internal bleeding caused by a ruptured spleen.
♦ Splenic Torsion: A painful condition where the spleen twists on its axis, cutting off blood flow.
♦ Trauma: Severe injury causing uncontrollable abdominal bleeding.

What symptoms might indicate a spleen problem?

Signs can include:

♦ Sudden weakness or collapse
♦ Pale gums
♦ Swollen abdomen
♦ Lethargy
♦ Decreased appetite

These symptoms can indicate internal bleeding and require immediate veterinary care.

Is a splenectomy safe for pets?

Splenectomy is a commonly performed surgery, but as with any major procedure, there are risks such as bleeding, infection, or complications from anesthesia. Your veterinary team will take steps to minimize these risks.

What is the recovery time?

Most pets begin to feel better within one (1) to two (2) weeks, with full recovery typically taking about two (2) to four (4) weeks. Activity restriction and follow-up visits are important during this time.

What is the prognosis after a splenectomy?

Prognosis depends on the underlying cause:

♦ Benign conditions: Excellent prognosis
♦ Malignant tumors: Varies depending on type and stage

Your veterinarian will guide you based on your pet’s diagnosis.

How can I schedule an appointment?

Give us a call at 720-510-7707