Are you considering splenectomy as an option for your dog? It is necessary to know what to expect from a splenectomy. Its safety, success rate, and cost are important information a concerned dog parent should know. Here in this article, we will talk about all these and much more.
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What Is a Splenectomy in Dogs
Splenectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removal of the spleen. The spleen is an important organ in the body that functions in blood filtering, removal of damaged blood cells, production of white blood cells, and production of antibodies, which aids in immune response.
Blood must pass through the spleen to get purified and tested for quality. If blood is found unfit to move and circulate to other parts of the body, it will be removed by the spleen. That is why, when there is a problem with the spleen or a blockage, it results in severe health conditions such as:
- Splenomegaly
- Splenic cancer
- Splenic mass
- Spleen torsion
- Splenic infection
- Splenic rupture
It is crucial to look out for the symptoms of these conditions in order to prevent it from becoming chronic. Symptoms such as pale gums, sudden weakness, and an enlarged abdomen, can easily be noticed through the Petcube camera when installed at a strategic location in the home.
Dog Splenectomy Success Rate
According to a study, splenectomies done on dogs using the laparoscopic-assisted procedure have low rates of postsurgical complications, mortality, or morbidity. This procedure is enough to get rid of a spleen mass or a total removal of the spleen.
But the real question remains: Can dogs do without their spleen? Yes! That is why the veterinarian could easily recommend a splenectomy for a severe splenic condition.
My neighbor’s dog got a splenectomy surgery and was already jumping around after a week. Many dogs would live their normal lives after a splenectomy since the body provides an alternative for blood filtering, such as the liver and the bone marrow.
However, there are certain things you need to put into consideration after having your dog undergo a splenectomy. These are post-surgical care and follow-up practices to ensure your dog recovers fully from a splenectomy. They include:
Blood transfusion
The spleen is a blood-storing organ; hence, there is a possibility of losing a lot of blood during splenectomy. Making provision for a blood transfusion if need be is crucial and should be readily available. Severe blood loss during splenectomy could lead to anaemia and could be fatal.
“The most common complication of splenectomy is haemorrhage; be ready for blood transfusion”, - Dr. Wendy Brooks
Use Elizabethan collar
One of the things that hampers the success of surgical procedures, especially invasive ones, is patients tampering with surgical sites. This will prolong and delay the healing process of the surgical wound and could lead to secondary bacterial infection or even septicemia. Using a collar on the dog will limit access to the surgical wound and hasten healing.
Rest
Every dog that has gone through a splenectomy is expected to be exhausted. Giving your dog enough rest will help boost its healing process and prevent further fatigue. Avoid strenuous and vigorous activity in the meantime until your dog regains its full strength and has recovered fully.
“With plenty of rest and some painkillers, it took about a week for my dog to get back on its feet after splenectomy”, - Reddit User
Supportive Care
Usually after surgery, you may need to return to the vet with your dog for suture removal and dressing of the surgical wound. If need be, your dog might be hospitalized for close monitoring and supportive therapy. Though the prognosis following splenectomy in dogs is good, research shows.
Splenectomy in Dogs Cost
How much does a splenectomy cost? There is no exact value for how much a splenectomy would cost. This depends on a lot of factors like the splenectomy procedure, age, size, or breed of the dog. Whatever the cost, you can take advantage of the Petcube Emergency Fund, which helps offset up to $3000 in vet fees. To sign up, click on the exclusive link and get a 27% discount.
Conclusion
Splenectomy in dogs is simply a removal of the spleen to alleviate a splenic condition. Dogs with no spleen get to live their normal lives even after a splenectomy. Symptoms of splenic conditions like abdominal pain and anemia should be looked out for and reported to the vet if noticed. This will help curb any impending splenic condition from becoming chronic.
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