ABSTRACT
Complications Immediate complications include postoperative hemorrhage, a pancreatic leak
from damage to the tail of the pancreas, or necrosis of a portion of the greater curvature of the stomach. Postoperative subphrenic abscesses or fluid collections may occur. An arteriovenous fistula may develop between the splenic artery and vein stumps. Postsplenectomy sepsis occurs in approximately 1% of patients. Ar terial thrombosis and stroke have been reported secondary to the postoperative
If the patient was operated for a hematologic indication, the response to therapy
must be followed. In immune thrombocytopenic purpura, for example, there is a relapse rate of 15-20%. Postsplenectomy patients should generally be treated with prophylactic oral antibiotics when undergoing dental work or similar procedures that entail a risk of bacteremia.
