Massive 45 cm Spleen Successfully Removed in Rare Hypersplenism Case

12 Feb 2026 | Medicover Hospitals | Srikakulam

A 44-year-old man was treated at Medicover Hospital, Srikakulam, for persistent shortness of breath and recurrent upper respiratory tract infections while exercising. Over time, his symptoms worsened, affecting his daily activities and overall health.

Severe Blood Abnormalities

Clinical examination revealed:

Laboratory investigations revealed severe pancytopenia:

  • Hemoglobin: 6 g/dl
  • Total leukocyte count: 3,000/mm³
  • Platelet count: 20,000/mm³

Ultrasound imaging confirmed massive enlargement of the spleen. Bone marrow biopsy revealed hypercellularity, indicating that the marrow is functioning but that blood cells are being destroyed or trapped in the enlarged spleen. This is medically called hypersplenism.

Pre-Surgical Optimization and Planning

Given the severity of the case, the patient underwent the following treatments:

  • Hematological stabilization
  • Blood component support
  • Preoperative vaccination against encapsulated organisms

After careful preparation, the team planned an elective splenectomy.

High-Risk Surgical Procedure

At the time of surgery, the spleen was markedly enlarged, measuring 45 X 25 cm, well above normal.

Enlarged spleen-sensitive content contains blood

Key surgical steps included:

  • Entry into the lesser sac
  • Early ligation of the splenic artery reduces spleen size and bleeding risk
  • Careful dissection and ligation of splenic vessels near the hilum
  • Mobilization of the spleen from surrounding attachments
  • Removal of the massive specimen through an upper midline incision

Early vascular control played a critical role in safe removal.

Excellent Postoperative Recovery

The postoperative period was uneventful and without any complications.

After surgery:

  • Hemoglobin levels improved
  • Platelet counts increased significantly
  • Overall, blood parameters stabilized

The patient recovered well and was discharged in stable condition.

Medicover Clinical Significance

Massive splenomegaly with hypersplenism is a complex condition that leads to severe anemia, infections, and bleeding risks.

This case highlights:

  • Importance of early diagnosis
  • Proper pre-operative optimization
  • Multidisciplinary surgical planning
  • Role of controlled vascular ligation in major splenic surgeries

The successful management of this rare and high-risk case at Medicover Hospital in Srikakulam demonstrates advanced surgical expertise and comprehensive perioperative care.


Contributors

Dr Syam Prasad Vamsi Ruttala

Dr Syam Prasad Vamsi Ruttala

Consultant Surgical Gastroenterology

Dr Manoj Kumar Sistu

Dr Manoj Kumar Sistu

Consultant General Surgeon

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