Splenectomy

A splenectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the spleen, an organ located in the upper left side of the abdomen that plays a role in filtering blood and supporting the immune system. This operation is typically performed to treat certain conditions such as blood disorders, infections, or trauma that damage or affect the spleen. After removal, the body compensates with other organs to handle blood filtering and immune responses. While the spleen is important, many people live healthily without it, but they may need vaccinations or antibiotics to reduce the risk of infections.