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