Complications associated with splenectomy in thalassemia

Aims and Objectives: The study aims at investigating the complications associated with splenectomy in thalassemic patients Study Design: It was a prospective clinical study. Materials and Method: Sixty Splenectomies were preformed electively after pre-operative preparation in Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Lahore during the year Jan 2003 to Sep 2005. Results: Complications were categorized into per-operative, early post-operative and late complications. The frequency of per-operative complications was 3%, early post-operative complications were 10% and late complications were 1.6%. Interpretation and Conclusion: The rate of complications has decreased markedly as the patients are well prepared and improved post operative carp has also reduced the post-operative complications. With good perioperative management, splenectomy in children with massive splenomegaly is both safe and effective.