What is splenectomy?

Splenectomy: When to call

Call 911 anytime you think your child may need emergency care. For example, call if:

• Your child passes out (loses consciousness).
• Your child has severe trouble breathing.
• Your child has symptoms of a blood clot in the lung (called a pulmonary embolism). These may include:
  • Sudden chest pain.
  • Trouble breathing.
  • Coughing up blood.

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• Your child has pain that does not get better after he or she takes pain medicine.
• Your child has loose stitches, or the incision comes open.
• Your child has signs of infection, such as:
  • Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
  • Red streaks leading from the incision.
  • Pus draining from the incision.
  • A fever.

• Your child is sick to his or her stomach or cannot drink fluids.
• Your child has symptoms of a blood clot in the leg (called a deep vein thrombosis), such as:
  • Pain in the calf, back of the knee, thigh, or groin.
  • Redness and swelling in the leg.

• Bright red blood has soaked through the bandage.
• Your child cannot pass stool or gas.

Watch closely for any changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• Your child has not had a bowel movement after a couple of days.
• Your child does not get better as expected.