Spline removal

A couple of weeks ago I ended up in the hospital and needed surgery. Because of ITP and low platelettes and very low white cells there was great concern for the procedure.However with the risk of infection and me going septic was far more concerning. So, my wonderful surgeon was willing to take the risk, and planned to remove my spline and fix the other problems. The surgery, although extensive 3 hours, was a success. It was found that my spline was 7 times the typical size and is likely the cause of my ITP. After surgery my platelettes and white cells have skyrocketed, yeah. The surgeon thinks the ITP is gone. Now, I would love feedback regarding his. I plan to follow up with my hemotologist regarding the status of ITP and I hope things are as well as the surgeon believes. My other question is I am concerned about the consequences of removing the spline. I was given immunizations for pnemonia and other high risk issues with the spline removal. I was told I need to be careful and stay immunized annually and to be cautious not to get sick and if I do get treatment immediately. I would love feedback from others who have had this procedure and what they do to stay safe and healthy.

Hi, dm.
I had my spleen out in 2006 and really haven't done anything different in staying healthy. I do try to stay away from people if I know they are sick, but other than that, nothing. I get my flu shot every year, too.

Thank you for your response. It is comforting to know there are people that are able to function well without their spleen. I have been instructed as well to stay clear of sick people. Fortunately/unfortunately I have 4 kids and them catching something is a regular occurence.

I have to be honest, I have never taken my ITP seriously. It was just something I had to deal with. Shortly after my splenectomy, we had an Easter dinner with one of my brother-in-laws and his wife had a cold. I wish she had told me before we went, but I think we would still have gone. The only other time I was concerned, I fell down my back stairs on the way down to get some brown sugar from my neighbor. Other than that, I take my ITP in a ho-hum kind of way.
Just remember, we are all different, so I may not get sick as much as you, especially with 4 little ones!