Advanced Liver-Biliary Pancreatic & Surgical Clinic
#02-83, Mount Alvernia Hospital, 820 Thomson Road, Singapore 574623
Splenectomy in Singapore
Splenectomy (Spleen Removal) Surgery
A splenectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the spleen, an organ located in the upper left part of the abdomen, near the stomach. The spleen plays an important role in filtering blood, fighting infections, and recycling old red blood cells.
Splenectomy surgery in Singapore is performed using advanced surgical techniques, including minimally invasive (laparoscopic) and robotic-assisted methods, which help ensure greater precision, reduced pain, and faster recovery. This procedure is commonly recommended for conditions such as trauma, blood disorders, enlarged spleen (splenomegaly), or certain cancers affecting the spleen.
With access to experienced specialists and modern healthcare facilities, patients undergoing splenectomy surgery in Singapore can expect high standards of safety, personalised care, and effective post-operative management for optimal recovery outcomes.
Supporting Your Health Through Every Stage of Splenectomy Care
The spleen is an organ located in the upper left side of the abdomen, just beneath the rib cage. It plays an important role in keeping the blood clean and supporting the immune system. Its rich blood supply allows it to continuously filter circulating blood.
The spleen also helps the body respond to infections and blood disorders. When it becomes overactive or enlarged, it can start removing healthy blood cells, which may lead to medical complications.
The spleen’s key functions include:
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Filtering bacteria and harmful organisms from the blood.
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Removing old or damaged red blood cells.
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Producing antibodies to support immune defence.
Do not ignore symptoms linked to spleen conditions, such as persistent abdominal pain, frequent infections, or blood disorders. Early diagnosis plays a critical role in preventing complications.
At ALPS Clinic, our experienced surgeon in Singapore offers comprehensive spleen evaluation, minimally invasive splenectomy where appropriate, and evidence-based care designed to support safer surgery, smoother recovery, and long-term health.
Symptoms of Conditions Leading to Splenectomy
Symptoms related to spleen conditions can vary depending on the underlying cause. In some cases, symptoms develop gradually, while in others they appear suddenly and require urgent medical attention.
Common symptoms may include:
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Pain or discomfort in the upper left side of the abdomen
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Tenderness when the abdomen is touched
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Abdominal swelling or a feeling of fullness
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Left shoulder pain
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Light-headedness, dizziness, confusion, or fainting
A ruptured spleen is a medical emergency and most often occurs after blunt trauma to the abdomen, such as accidents or falls. The symptoms listed above may indicate internal bleeding and should never be ignored.
If you have ongoing abdominal pain, bloating, frequent infections, or unexplained bruising, see a doctor promptly. These symptoms may be linked to spleen problems.
Diagnosis Before Laparoscopic Splenectomy
A thorough diagnosis is required before laparoscopic splenectomy to confirm the need for surgery and evaluate the condition of the spleen.
Physical Examination
The doctor examines the abdomen to check spleen size, tenderness, and any abnormal swelling.
Blood Tests
Blood tests are used to assess blood cell levels and spleen function. These help identify blood disorders, anemia, low platelet counts, or signs that the spleen is destroying blood cells too quickly.
Imaging Tests
Imaging helps confirm spleen size and detect injuries or growths. Common tests include ultrasound and CT scans, while MRI may be used when a more detailed evaluation is required.
Diagnostic Laparoscopy
In selected cases, a minimally invasive procedure may be used to directly view the spleen and surrounding organs, especially when the diagnosis is unclear, or cancer or trauma is suspected.
Surgical Approaches to Splenectomy Treatment
The choice of surgical technique depends on several factors, including the underlying condition affecting the spleen, its size, the presence of trauma or cancer, and your overall health. At ALPS Clinic, every patient undergoes a comprehensive assessment to determine the safest and most appropriate approach to splenectomy.
Laparoscopic Splenectomy (Keyhole Surgery)
Laparoscopic splenectomy is a minimally invasive surgical technique and is the preferred approach for many patients requiring spleen removal. The procedure is performed through several small incisions in the abdomen using a high-definition camera (laparoscope) and specialised surgical instruments.
The magnified view provided by the laparoscope allows the surgeon to carefully separate the spleen from the surrounding blood vessels and tissues before removing it through a small incision.
Laparoscopic splenectomy is generally recommended for patients with:
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Small to moderately enlarged spleens
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Blood disorders such as immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) or hereditary spherocytosis
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Benign (non-cancerous) splenic conditions
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Selected cysts or tumours of the spleen
Benefits of laparoscopic splenectomy include:
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Smaller incisions with minimal scarring
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Less postoperative pain
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Reduced blood loss
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Lower risk of wound infection
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Shorter hospital stay
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Faster recovery and earlier return to normal daily activities
However, not every patient is suitable for a laparoscopic approach. Your surgeon will evaluate whether this technique can be performed safely based on your individual condition.
Open Splenectomy
An open splenectomy is performed through a single larger incision in the upper abdomen, allowing the surgeon direct access to the spleen and surrounding organs. While laparoscopic surgery is preferred whenever feasible, an open approach may provide greater safety and control in more complex cases.
Open splenectomy may be recommended for patients with:
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Massive splenomegaly (significantly enlarged spleen)
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Traumatic splenic injury or internal bleeding requiring emergency surgery
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Splenic cancers or tumours involving nearby organs
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Extensive scar tissue (adhesions) from previous abdominal surgery
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Situations where heavy bleeding or anatomical complexity makes minimally invasive surgery unsafe
Although recovery following an open splenectomy is generally longer than with laparoscopic surgery, it remains the most appropriate and safest option for certain patients.
At ALPS Clinic, our priority is to perform the least invasive procedure whenever it is safe to do so, while ensuring the highest standards of surgical precision and patient care. Every treatment plan is individualised to achieve the best possible clinical outcome.
Why Choose ALPS Clinic for Splenectomy Surgery in Singapore?
Choosing where to receive care is an important step in the treatment journey. ALPS Clinic provides specialised splenectomy care in Singapore, combining surgical expertise with a patient-focused treatment approach.
Experienced Surgical Care
Splenectomy is performed by an internationally trained surgeon experienced in hepatobiliary and complex abdominal procedures, ensuring safe and precise surgical outcomes.
Minimally Invasive Focus
Whenever appropriate, laparoscopic and robotic-assisted techniques are used to reduce surgical trauma, hospital stay, and recovery time.
Personalised Treatment Planning
Each patient receives an individualised care plan based on their condition, spleen size, and overall health, supported by careful pre- and post-operative management.
Clear Communication and Costs
Patients receive clear guidance on procedure details, recovery expectations, and the splenectomy cost Singapore, ensuring transparency throughout the treatment journey.
ALPS Clinic combines expertise in splenectomy surgery with advanced procedures such as gallbladder removal, pancreatic surgery, bile duct treatment, gastroscopy, and liver transplant care, ensuring a fully integrated treatment approach.
Splenectomy Cost in Singapore
The cost of a splenectomy in Singapore can vary depending on several factors, including the type of surgery performed (laparoscopic or open), the complexity of the procedure, your underlying medical condition, hospital charges, length of hospital stay, and whether additional investigations or treatments are required.
During your consultation, our surgeon will assess your condition and discuss the most appropriate treatment approach. We believe in transparent communication and will provide a detailed explanation of the anticipated costs before surgery, including information on insurance coverage, MediSave utilisation, and any applicable medical claims where eligible.
If you would like a personalised cost estimate or have questions regarding financial matters, please contact ALPS Clinic to arrange a consultation. Our team will be happy to provide comprehensive financial counselling and guide you through the available payment and financing options.
