can you live without a spleen - Health Topics
A splenectomy is surgery to remove your spleen. You can live a normal lifespan without a spleen, but you’ll need to take precautions to prevent infections. The spleen helps the body fight infection, but people can live without a spleen.
Understanding the Context
Learn about the risks and results of this surgery to remove the spleen. The spleen, a small organ located in the upper left abdomen, plays a role in the body’s defense systems and blood filtration. While it performs important functions, individuals can live full and active lives without it if its removal, known as a splenectomy, becomes necessary. You can live without a spleen, but you may be at a greater risk for certain types of blood infection.
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The degree of risk depends on your age and if you have other diseases. Can you live without a spleen? Yes, you can live without your spleen. Once the spleen is removed, however, an individual does have an increased susceptibility to infections. What needs to happen before a splenectomy?
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The child needs to receive certain vaccinations to prevent certain infections. However, due to injury or necessary surgery (splenectomy), some people find themselves without this vital organ. Living without a spleen is entirely possible, and most individuals lead normal, healthy lives. Some people are born without a spleen or need to have it removed because of illness or injury. The spleen is a fist-sized organ in the upper left side of your abdomen, next to your stomach and behind your left ribs. It's an important part of your immune system, but you can survive without it.
Living without a spleen is compatible with a normal life expectancy. The body's liver and bone marrow compensate, but lifelong infection risks and other complications are elevated. Mitigation involves strict health protocols, vaccinations, and prompt medical attention for any signs of infection.