Splenectomy and alcohol – is it compatible?
Since the spleen is not involved in the breakdown of alcohol, there is nothing to be said against occasional, moderate alcohol consumption even after a splenectomy. However, after a splenectomy, the liver takes over some of the tasks of the spleen, which is why it should be spared as much as possible. Excessive, regular consumption of alcohol should therefore be an even greater taboo in this situation than in general! In addition, excessive alcohol consumption affects the body’s defenses, which is particularly unfavorable after a splenectomy, since the affected persons are more susceptible to infections anyway. The following applies after a splenectomy: As long as you do not overdo it, you can enjoy your occasional beer or a glass of your favorite wine with a clear conscience.
Surgical procedure of a splenectomy
At the beginning of the splenectomy (removal of the spleen) performed under general anesthesia, a so-called laparotomy is performed, i.e. the abdominal cavity is opened. In a planned operation, an arch-shaped incision is usually made at the lower edge of the left costal arch, while in emergency operations the incision is usually made in the middle of the upper abdomen. After a connecting band between the intestine and stomach has been cut, the left colon arch is exposed.
This is connected to the spleen via another connecting band, which must also be overcome. The surgeon then cuts through the blood vessels of the spleen and clips them. The organ can then be prepared from the surrounding tissue and finally removed. At the end of the operation, the drains are put in place and finally the incisions are sutured.
