Splenectomy Surgery for Dogs and Cats: A Comprehensive Guide

Here are the most common reasons a splenectomy might be necessary for your dog or cat:

• Tumors (Benign or Malignant):

  One of the leading causes of splenectomy in dogs is the presence of splenic tumors. The most concerning is hemangiosarcoma, an aggressive and often fatal cancer that originates in the blood vessels of the spleen. It is especially common in older, large-breed dogs such as Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, and German Shepherds. 

  Even benign masses, like hematomas or nodular hyperplasia, can rupture and cause life-threatening bleeding. While splenic tumors in cats are less common, they can include conditions like mast cell tumors or lymphoma, both of which may require spleen removal.

• Trauma or Injury:

  Accidents such as being hit by a car, falling from a significant height, or experiencing blunt force trauma can cause the spleen to rupture. A ruptured spleen often leads to internal bleeding that must be addressed immediately. In such cases, splenectomy is performed as an emergency surgery to save your pet's life.

• Splenic Torsion:

  This is a rare but critical condition where the spleen twists on its supporting blood vessels. The twisting cuts off the organ's blood supply, leading to tissue death and systemic toxicity. Splenic torsion develops quickly and causes significant abdominal pain, weakness, and shock. Surgical removal is typically the only treatment option.

• Immune-Mediated Diseases:

  In some pets, immune disorders like immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) or immune-mediated thrombocytopenia (IMT) lead the spleen to mistakenly attack and destroy the body's own red blood cells or platelets. Removing the spleen can help reduce the immune system's overactivity and improve your pet's response to treatment when medications fail to control these conditions.

• Persistent or Recurrent Infections:

  In rare cases, bacterial or parasitic infections that localize in the spleen and resist antibiotic therapy may necessitate removal. This is especially true for chronic or recurring infections that compromise your pet's systemic health and cannot be resolved through medication alone.

  Splenectomy is a major surgical procedure, but when it is recommended, it is often the safest and most effective option. Whether your pet is facing cancer, trauma, or a life-threatening immune condition, spleen removal can provide relief, restore comfort, and significantly improve long-term outcomes.

Knowing what happens during a splenectomy can help you feel more informed and reassured as your pet undergoes surgery. A splenectomy is a major procedure that requires general anesthesia and the expertise of a veterinary surgical team. Whether your pet's surgery is planned or done in an emergency, the steps are largely the same, with added urgency in critical cases.

Here is what you can expect step-by-step:

• Preoperative Diagnostics

  Before surgery, your veterinarian will perform thorough diagnostics to confirm that a splenectomy is necessary. This usually includes complete bloodwork to check red blood cell levels, clotting ability, and organ function. Imaging studies, such as abdominal ultrasound or X-rays, are used to evaluate the spleen's size, detect internal bleeding, and rule out the presence of additional masses or complications.

• Anesthesia and Surgical Monitoring

  Your pet will be placed under general anesthesia and prepped for surgery. Throughout the procedure, veterinary staff use advanced monitoring equipment to monitor vital signs such as heart rate, oxygen levels, blood pressure, and respiratory rate. These precautions are essential to keeping your pet stable and safe during surgery.

• Surgical Removal of the Spleen

  The veterinarian will make an incision in your pet's abdomen to access and carefully remove the spleen. Special attention is given to controlling bleeding and protecting nearby organs like the stomach, liver, and pancreas. In cases where tumors or ruptures are present, the team may also assess the surrounding tissue for signs of spread or damage.

• Immediate Postoperative Recovery

  After surgery, your pet is transferred to recovery, where they are closely observed. Pain control, IV fluids, and supportive care are administered to maintain comfort and stabilize vital signs. Most pets are monitored at the hospital for 24 to 48 hours, depending on how they respond to the procedure and whether complications arise.

  Each phase of the splenectomy is handled with precision and care. By understanding what happens during surgery, you can better prepare for your pet's recovery and work with your veterinary team to ensure a smooth and safe outcome.